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Solid Propellant Plant (UPG)
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Industrial site
The Solid Propellant Plant (UPG, Usine de Propergol de Guyane) in Kourou is a cornerstone of European rocket production in South America. Since becoming operational in the 1990s, this facility has been responsible for manufacturing the solid fuel that powers the boosters of Ariane rockets. The production process is highly complex and involves mixing ammonium perchlorate, aluminum powder, and a synthetic rubber binder under the strictest safety protocols. The propellant segments produced on-site are cast directly into the booster casings, eliminating the dangerous transoceanic transport of pre-filled rocket components from Europe. The factory is operated by Regulus, a joint venture between Avio and ArianeGroup, and sustains hundreds of high-skilled jobs in the region. This industrial autonomy is crucial for the schedule of European space launches and solidifies French Guiana's position as a technological hub.
- Location: French Guiana
- Top sights: Belvédère Orchidée · Toucan launch observation point
- Nearby: Kaw Marshes (83 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug–Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 25 |
| Rain mm | 268 | 240 | 229 | 343 | 469 | 322 | 214 | 113 | 56 | 61 | 110 | 282 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Solid Propellant Plant UPG in Kourou mixes and casts the solid fuel for the huge boosters of the Ariane rockets. It is a highly specialized industrial facility that exists only in a few locations worldwide.
Visiting
For security reasons, the plant site is strictly off limits to the general public. Even from the outside only a few building parts are visible, as the facility has been discreetly integrated into the forest.
Where to view it
From the nearby viewpoint on Route de l'Espace you can glimpse the plant outlines and security perimeters. More visible are the transport vehicles on the connecting road to the Pariacabo port.
Local products
The plant produces no consumer goods; the output serves exclusively spaceflight. As a souvenir, you can buy scale models of the boosters or space-themed items at the space center museum.
Active season
The plant operates in campaigns synchronized with Ariane rocket launch dates. The most active periods are about six to twelve months before a planned launch.
Nearby
Combine the exploration of space infrastructure with a visit to the Guiana Space Centre museum. Also the beaches of Kourou and the coastal savanna lend themselves to extending the trip.
Geography
Facts
- The UPG began operations to support the Ariane 5 program.
- It produces approximately 10,000 tons of solid propellant annually.
- The fuel consists of about 68% ammonium perchlorate as an oxidizer.
- Regulus, the operator, is a joint venture between Avio and ArianeGroup.
- The facility is located in an isolated zone of the CSG for safety reasons.
- The produced fuel is used for Ariane 5 and now for the Ariane 6 boosters.
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Sights in the town Solid Propellant Plant (UPG) (2)
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Frequently asked questions
What is the UPG plant?
This is where the solid propellant boosters of the Ariane rockets are filled.
Is entry allowed?
Entry is allowed only for authorized specialist personnel.
What fuel is produced there?
It is a special high-energy solid mixture.
Are there safety drills?
Due to the risk of explosion, there are extremely strict safety precautions.
Is the plant far from Kourou?
It is located on the extensive grounds of the space center, away from the city.
Solid Propellant Plant (UPG): where is it located?
Solid Propellant Plant (UPG) is located in French Guiana.
Solid Propellant Plant (UPG): what is there to see?
Highlights include Belvédère Orchidée, Toucan launch observation point.
Solid Propellant Plant (UPG): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.
Solid Propellant Plant (UPG): why is it worth visiting?
The Solid Propellant Plant (UPG, Usine de Propergol de Guyane) in Kourou is a cornerstone of European rocket production in South America.
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