![](https://coimages.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/26/31/large_thumbnail_l2011_4042__0003_.jpg)
Resin pyramid containing a model of 'Ariane 5'
- Made:
- 1995
- maker:
- European Space Agency
![Pyramid shaped paperweight? in box 'Ariane V'](https://coimages.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/466/765/medium_smg00126004.jpg)
Resin pyramid containing a model of 'Ariane 5', ESA branded, with blue cardboard box, by the European Space Agency, 1995
Ariane V is a space launch vehicle developed and operated by Arianespace on behalf of the European Space Agency, with the main purpose of launching heavy payloads.
Ariane V had a rocky start, failing in its maiden flight in 1996 but has been in commercial operation since 1999 and has a history of over 100 successful launches – including launching the James Webb space telescope in December 2021.