European Access to Space: Factors of Autonomy

Abstract

Launchers are one of the most recognisable elements of a nation’s space activities. This symbol is even stronger in the context of Europe’s spacefaring identity, as its Ariane 5 launcher is recognised both within the general public and among the actors in the global space community. With a successful track record exceeding 30 years, the Ariane launcher family is both a shining example of European achievements in space and, more broadly, the result of technological and scientific integration processes at the European level.