Europe's Spaceport is a strategically located facility that provides optimum conditions for Arianespace's commercial Ariane launches. Situated close to the equator, it is ideally situated for missions into geostationary orbit. In addition, the French Guiana coastline allows for launches into all useful orbits, from northward flights to eastward tracks.
| Europe's Spaceport is the world's most modern and efficient launch site. A major infrastructure has been developed to support Arianespace's clients. Kourou, the city nearest the Spaceport, has witnessed a dramatic growth with the Ariane program's success. |
ELA-3 is designed for rapid-paced missions with the Ariane 5 launcher, providing maximum flexibility for Europe's heavy-lift vehicle. The fully-assembled Ariane 5 is transferred to the launch zone only hours before liftoff. |
French Guiana, the South American nation that is home to the Spaceport, is a fascinating place with a rich history. Find out more about the country, and learn some of the local terms. |
Learn about the past, present and future of Europe's Spaceport - the state-of-the art facility that currently performs Ariane 5 launches, and which will welcome the Vega and Soyuz launch vehicles in the coming years. |