Ariane 64 | Optus-11
Read More expand_more
Optus-11 is a Ku-band communications satellite with a coverage zone encompassing Australia and New Zealand. Optus-11 incorporates a number of advanced technologies, especially the latest developments in digital processing, plus active antennas enabling the creation of several thousand beams.
Mission Profile
Launch Date
Dec 31
2026
Time
00:00
UTC
Rocket
Ariane 64
64
Site
ll-location-13
ll-pad-67
Orbit
GTO
Geostationary Transfer Orbit
history
Launch Timeline
expand_circle_down
Final Engine Checks
Final checks of the Vulcain 2.1 (core) and Vinci (upper stage) engines.
Synchronized Sequence
Start of the automated synchronized sequence.
Vulcain 2.1 Ignition
Core stage engine ignites first and is monitored for health.
Liftoff
Four P120C boosters ignite; the vehicle lifts off from Europe’s Spaceport in Kourou.
Booster Separation (4 boosters)
Four P120C solid boosters have spent their fuel and are jettisoned.
Fairing Jettison
Payload fairing separates after passing the thickest atmosphere.
Show More Events Show More Events expand_more
Core Stage Separation
MECO and core stage separation; the core stage re-enters over the ocean.
MES-1 (Vinci Ignition)
Vinci ignites for the first time to reach an initial parking orbit.
SECO-1
First cutoff of the Vinci engine; coast phase begins (APU supports propellant settling).
MES-2 (Vinci Reignition)
Vinci restarts after a long coast to circularize the orbit or change inclination.
SECO-2
Final cutoff after reaching the target orbit.
Payload Deployment
Satellites are released into their designated orbits.
MES-3 (De-orbit Burn)
Final short burn to ensure re-entry and safe splashdown in a remote Pacific area.
Mission Payload
Optus-11 is a Ku-band communications satellite with a coverage zone encompassing Australia and New Zealand. Optus-11 incorporates a number of advanced technologies, especially the latest developments in digital processing, plus active antennas enabling the creation of several thousand beams.