French Guiana has much to inspire the imagination: it has a spectacular forest and a strong history that has left its mark. But it also has another jewel: the French and European space launch site in Kourou.
As the launch approaches, the pulse of the city of Kourou quickens. The atmosphere is feverish. For a few weeks, Kourou is the centre of the world and has its eyes on the sky. We are at the heart of the event, exploring its backstage, meeting its actors to understand what is being prepared and played out in Kourou. Beyond the technological challenges, new issues have emerged over time and the importance given to biodiversity and the environment has become a priority.
Let’s go behind the scenes of a launch until the final countdown.