The Ariane 5 rocket, developed by the European Space Agency (ESA) and its subsidiary Arianespace, is a cornerstone of European space exploration. Its development began in the late 1980s, as a successor to the Ariane 4, aiming to meet the growing demand for launching heavy payloads into geostationary orbit. The rocket's maiden flight took place on June 4, 1996, from the Guiana Space Centre in French Guiana. Key figures in its development include Jean-Marie Luton, the then-director general of ESA, and the engineers at Aérospatiale and CNES (French National Centre for Space Studies). The Ariane 5 is renowned for its heavy-lifting capabilities, able to carry dual payloads, and has been pivotal in launching satellites for telecommunications, Earth observation, and scientific missions, including the Rosetta probe. Despite an initial failure, the rocket has developed a reputation for reliability, completing over 100 successful launches. Its ongoing evolution reflects advancements in aerospace technology and Europe's commitment to independent access to space.
Podcast
Discover a 5-minute podcast that will let you through this story
eBook
Go further in this story with a 30 minute ebook
Read the eBook