10 Things to Do at the Kourou Space Centre in Saint-Georges, French Guiana
The Kourou Space Centre, located in Saint-Georges, French Guiana, is a major launch site for the European Space Agency (ESA). It has been used for more than 50 years to launch satellites, probes, and spacecrafts into Earth's orbit and beyond. The centre is also a popular tourist destination, offering a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. Here are 10 things to do at the Kourou Space Centre:
1. Take a Tour: The Kourou Space Centre offers guided tours of the facility. The tour will take you through the launch site, giving you an up-close look at the various rockets and spacecrafts. You'll also learn about the history of the centre and the processes involved in launching a satellite or spacecraft.
2. Visit the Space Museum: The Space Museum at the Kourou Space Centre is a must-see for any space enthusiast. The museum houses a variety of artifacts, including models of spacecrafts, satellites, and rockets. You can also learn about the history of space exploration and the advances made by the ESA.
3. Watch a Launch: One of the most exciting things to do at the Kourou Space Centre is to watch a launch. The centre has a viewing platform where you can watch the rockets take off and soar into the sky. You can also watch the launches live on the ESA's website.
4. Take a Boat Trip: The Kourou River runs right through the Kourou Space Centre, making it an ideal spot for boat trips. You can take a boat tour of the centre and get up close to the various launch pads and other facilities.
5. See the Guiana Space Centre: The Guiana Space Centre is a nearby satellite launch facility owned by the ESA. It is located just outside of Kourou and is home to the Ariane 5 launch vehicle. You can take a tour of the centre and get a closer look at the rockets and spacecrafts.
6. Visit the Astronomy Observatory: The Astronomy Observatory at the Kourou Space Centre is a great place to observe the night sky. The observatory is equipped with powerful telescopes that allow you to observe stars, planets, and other celestial bodies.
7. Explore the Jungle: The Kourou Space Centre is located in the middle of a lush tropical rainforest. You can take a guided tour of the jungle and explore the diverse flora and fauna.
8. Visit the Local Markets: The local markets in Kourou are a great place to pick up souvenirs and local crafts. You can also sample some of the delicious food and drinks on offer.
9. Take a Hike: The Kourou Space Centre is surrounded by lush rainforest and rugged terrain. You can take a hike through the area and explore the diverse wildlife and stunning scenery.
10. Relax at the Beach: The nearby beach of Montjoly is a great spot to relax and unwind. The beach has white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect spot for a day of sunbathing and swimming.
No matter what you choose to do, the Kourou Space Centre is a great destination for any space enthusiast. From watching launches to exploring the jungle, there is something for everyone at the Kourou Space Centre.