Katalyst selects Arianespace to launch GEO mission aboard Ariane 6
23.03.2026
Arianespace signs contract with Katalyst Space Technologies for the launch of NEXUS-1 spacecraft. The spacecraft will be launched by Ariane 6, Europe’s heavy-lift launcher, to a geostationary transfer orbit second half of 2027. This new mission showcases Ariane 6’s unique versatility, flexibility and modularity as well as its competitiveness on the international space market.
Arianespace announced today that it has signed a contract with U.S. based Katalyst Space Technologies to launch the NEXUS-1 spacecraft to geostationary transfer orbit using the Ariane 6 from the European Spaceport in French Guiana.
Through this mission, Katalyst Space Technologies aims to expand the role of in-space servicing in satellite operations. Its technology enables satellites to be upgraded after launch, allowing operators to add new capabilities and extend the value of their spacecraft over time.
The Ariane 6, which has successfully performed all six of its launches to date, is Europe’s proven, state of the art, heavy-lift workhorse vehicle.
“We are delighted to sign this Ariane 6 launch contract with Katalyst. We are all about launching ambitions worldwide with Europe’s powerful heavy-lift launcher Ariane 6, able to support complex and innovative space missions, like Katalyst’s NEXUS-1,” said David Cavaillolès, CEO of Arianespace.
"Katalyst is building the infrastructure required for dynamic space operations. Securing our Ariane 6 launch is a major step toward delivering on-orbit capabilities that allow satellite operators to adapt, respond, and extend mission value in ways they never could before. We are excited to partner with Arianespace on this important mission to deploy these capabilities for our government and commercial partners."