Ariane 6

European space giant Arianespace says it has agreed to buy 18 Ariane 5 rockets from EADS subsidiary Astrium for a total of more than $2.75 billion. The rockets are to be launched from 2017 and follow an order of 35 in 2009, Arianespace said in a statement. Having recently expanded its rocket family, Europe boasts various launchers. Its longer term future space missions are to be spearheaded by Ariane 6.VIDEOGRAPHIC