Successful Launch of Copernicus Sentinel-1D by Ariane 6
On November 4, 2025, at 6:02 p.m. local time in Kourou, French Guiana (9:02 p.m. CET), Ariane 6 lifted off from Europe’s Spaceport, carrying the Copernicus Sentinel-1D satellite for the European Commission. This was the third commercial flight of Ariane 6, operated by Arianespace.
Mission Details
The Sentinel-1D satellite was placed into a Sun-synchronous orbit (SSO) at an altitude of 693 km, with spacecraft separation occurring 34 minutes after lift-off. Sentinel-1D is equipped with an advanced radar instrument designed to deliver all-weather, day-and-night imagery of Earth’s surface.
Arianespace Statement
David Cavaillolès, CEO of Arianespace, said: “Tonight, Arianespace has successfully launched the EU's Copernicus Sentinel-1D satellite, on board Ariane 6. With this mission, Arianespace has now delivered seven Sentinel satellites for the emblematic Copernicus program dedicated to the environment - underscoring our commitment to using space for the benefit of life on Earth, while supporting Europe's significant ambitions in space. We express our gratitude towards the European Commission, the European Space Agency and all our counterparts for their unique trust and collaboration.”
Program Context
The launch is part of a contract signed with the European Space Agency (ESA) and contributes to the Copernicus program, which supports environmental monitoring through satellite data.
Ariane 6 continues to demonstrate its capability as a reliable heavy-lift launcher for Europe’s space ambitions.
Author’s summary: Ariane 6 successfully launched the Sentinel-1D satellite, enhancing Europe’s Copernicus environmental monitoring program and reinforcing international collaboration in space exploration.