[Yo-Yo]

I just can't get past this question -- sorry, but WTF are those people thinking? This shouldn't be rocket science, why wouldn't they put an American launch site first? Do they think they'll save enough money to make the risks worthwhile?

The closer to the equator you launch from, the more assist you get from the Earth's rotation.

Why is it better to launch from the Equator?

[BroJoeK]

"The closer to the equator you launch from, the more assist you get from the Earth's rotation."

Sure, but the distance from Cape Canaveral to French Guiana is only 1600 miles in latitude.
If it were that important, why not launch from, say, Hawaii's big island, only 1,000 miles north in latitude from French Guiana?

Not saying French Guiana isn't a good idea, but if there are unnecessary risks, why take them?