ESA's Ariane 6 rocket takes off - in pictures

Europe's Ariane 6 rocket takes off, in Kourou, French Guiana. Reuters
The European Space Agency satellite launcher successfully blasted off for the first time on Tuesday, releasing satellites into orbit and restoring the continent's independent access to space. AFP
Spectators watch as the Ariane 6 rocket takes off. AFP
Engineers and managers monitor the parameters of the Ariane 6 launcher in The Jupiter Room at The Guiana Space Centre. AFP
A public screening of the launch at the Cite de l'Espace, in Toulouse, south-western France. AFP
Members of the media gather as Ariane 6 moves to the launch pad in Kourou. AFP
The Ariane 6 rocket prior to its maiden launch. AFP