French Guiana, the space port for Europe, is about to write a new chapter in its history with the launch of the James Webb Telescope aboard Ariane 5, scheduled for December 22, 2021 in Kourou. Good news for tourism and the economic development of the country. On Air interviews Jean-Luc Le West, President of the French Guiana Tourism Committee.
M. Jean-Luc Le West, President of the Guyana Tourism Committee. Crédit photo : Anthony BLOUD/Gwayana Média Press
ONAIR – When the James Webb Telescope reaches its ultimate destination (1.5 million kilometers from Earth), it will become the most important observatory for thousands of astronomers around the world. This highly anticipated launch is a major event… what is your feeling in terms of the director of the primary institutional source for tourism in French Guiana?
Luc Le West – This launch provides an incredible shot in the arm to one of the few destinations that offers such space-related activity. We are working in close collaboration with the Guiana Space Center (CSG), with the goal of creating—for today and for tomorrow—a true “launching pad” for tourism in French Guiana by developing interest in this technological dimension. Economically, the results can already be seen, especially with the important presence of NASA. The Webb Telescope is the most expensive object sent into space with a budget of 12 billion euros. The assembly of components was done locally, as was the preparation of the launchers. This economic development is accompanied by a concerted ecological effort to continually reduce the impact of such launches on the environment. French Guiana has incredible possibilities for technological industries to move here and develop in a large, healthy universe. Remember that mankind is present on only 1% of the land and consumption of energy is exemplary (65% of the country’s electricity comes from the Petit-Saut Dam, to which is added that produced by biofuel and solar). We have a serious desire to put French Guiana on the map for international excellence.
OA – For travelers attracted to the CSG, are there other activities of interest in Kourou?
LLW – In addition to the space museum and visits to the CSG, Kourou is the point of departure for The Salvation Islands (Iles du Salut), a major tourism site. Ninety minutes away by boat, this volcanic archipelago permits exploration of the penitentiary buildings of a former penal colony, and has magnificent promenades and lovely beaches. Excursions on the Kourou River are also memorable, as are hikes to Monkey Island or a visit to the Amerindian Archeological Center. To really appreciate French Guiana, one simply has to visit. Log onto guyane-amazonie.fr to organize your next trip!
CONTACT : www.guyane-amazonie.fr www.facebook.com/comitedutourismedelaguyane French Guiana Tourism Committee: www.facebook.com/guyanetourisme Yana Tourism Info: www.facebook.com/yanainfostourisme Guyane tourism: www.facebook.com/guyanetourisme Instagram: www.instagram.com/guyane_tourisme/
Autor : Mathias Flodrops
