Ariane 6 launch complex at Europe's Spaceport

Europe’s Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana is gearing up for the arrival of Ariane 6, Europe’s next-generation launch vehicle. This aerial view from December 2020 shows the main elements of the new launch complex. 

At the centre of this photo is the 8200 tonne 90 metre-high mobile gantry which will house Ariane 6 up to launch. First in July then again in December 2019, the gantry was rolled along its rails to its prelaunch position over the launch pad. Platforms inside the gantry will allow engineers access to the rocket for integration and maintenance. The mobile gantry is retracted before launch.

Flame trenches on either side of the gantry will funnel the exhaust at liftoff. 

Four lightning masts around the launch pad protect against lightning strikes.

The water tower, the top of which is just visible behind to the mobile gantry, will provide the water that will quell the fiery plumes at liftoff.

On the right in the foreground is the liquid oxygen storage facility.

On the left of the photo at the end of the road, the liquid hydrogen storage facility is visible.