Arianespace

Arianespace SA is a French company founded in 1980 as the world's first commercial space transportation company. They undertake the production, operation, and marketing of the Ariane 5 rocket launcher as part of the Ariane programme. As of 2004, Arianespace held more than 50 percent of the world market for boosting satellites to geostationary transfer orbit (GTO). More than 240 commercial launches have occurred since May 22, 1984, and Arianespace... more

Arianespace SA is a French company founded in 1980 as the world's first commercial space transportation company. They undertake the production, operation, and marketing of the Ariane 5 rocket launcher as part of the Ariane programme. As of 2004, Arianespace held more than 50 percent of the world market for boosting satellites to geostationary transfer orbit (GTO). More than 240 commercial launches have occurred since May 22, 1984, and Arianespace states that the total number of launch contracts signed since Ariane launches commenced operations in 1984 is 285. Arianespace uses the Centre Spatial Guyanais as a launch site. It has its headquarters in Courcouronnes, Essonne, France, near Évry. Arianespace has 24 shareholders from 10 European countries, including: Total of 99.99% due to round-off Corporate management is structured as follows: Offices As of 1 July 2006, Arianespace employed 271 personnel at its French headquarters, at its launch complex at the Guiana Space Centre in French... less