The Diamant A rocket is the first French-built satellite launcher. Initiated in 1961, the “Pierres précieuses” space programme resulted in the Diamant rocket, which made its first launch on 26 November 1965 from the Algerian base of Hammaguir. Diamant A successfully launched the first French satellite, named Astérix A1 (39 kg). All versions of the rocket had three stages and a payload of about 150 kg. Until 1975, twelve Diamant rockets carried out nine successful missions. The project was then abandoned in favour of the larger European Ariane project.