ELA-1/2 launch pads at Kourou

The first Ariane vehicles were launched from the ELA-1 complex at the Kourou, French Guiana site. ELA-1 was closed down in December 1989 and finally dismantled in 1991. It was replaced by ELA-2 to handle the more powerful Ariane-4 vehicles. ELA-2's pad can be seen under construction in the background. [Image Date: 01-03-82] [82.09.004-050]