Arianespace http://www.arianespace.com/index/index.asp Arianespace en-us Europe's Automated Transfer Vehicle is integrated on Ariane 5 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2012/883.asp February 9, 2012 The third European Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV) for launch by Arianespace was installed atop its Ariane 5 at the Spaceport today, marking one of the final steps in preparations for a March 9 liftoff on a servicing mission to the International Space Station. The third Automated Transfer Vehicle is fueled for its March launch on Ariane 5 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2012/880.asp January 20, 2012 Fueling is underway for Europe's third Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV) at the Spaceport in French Guiana, which will be launched by Arianespace in March aboard an Ariane 5 for an International Space Station servicing mission. Ariane 5, Soyuz, Vega: Three world-changing launch vehicles http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2012/1-5-2012-conference.asp January 5, 2012 After confirming its world leadership in 2011, Arianespace is now ramping up for operations in 2012. It aims to carry out seven Ariane 5 launches, five Soyuz launches and the first Vega launch. Another year of Arianespace launch accomplishments is completed with a Soyuz mission for Globalstar http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/879.asp December 29, 2011 Arianespace wrapped up another busy - and historic - 12 months of commercial launch services today by orbiting six satellites for mobile voice and data services on the ninth flight of 2011 - during a year in which the company lofted a total of 29 payloads using the Ariane 5 and Soyuz members of its launcher family. Soyuz is poised for liftoff from Baikonur Cosmodrome with Globalstar second-generation satellites http://www.arianespace.com/Arianespace/news-mission-update/2011/878.asp December 27, 2011 Another Soyuz is ready for liftoff at the service of Arianespace - with this workhorse launcher to carry six Globalstar second-generation satellites in a mission scheduled for tomorrow night from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. Ariane 5 is prepared for its initial 2012 mission, which will orbit Europe's next Automated Transfer Vehicle http://www.arianespace.com/Arianespace/news-mission-update/2011/877.asp December 21, 2011 Arianespace is readying the first Ariane 5 for launch in 2012 from French Guiana following delivery of this heavy-lift workhorse yesterday at the Spaceport by its industrial prime contractor, Astrium. Success of the 1,782nd launch of Soyuz http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/12-21-2011-1782-soyuz-success.asp December 21, 2011 The 1,782nd flight of a Soyuz launch vehicle was performed on Wednesday, 21 December 2011 from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan at 17:16 Moscow time (14:16 Paris time). Six more Globalstar satellites are ready for launch from Baikonur Cosmodrome on Soyuz http://www.arianespace.com/Arianespace/news-mission-update/2011/876.asp December 19, 2011 The next cluster of second-generation Globalstar satellites to be orbited by Arianespace is ready for launch on a Soyuz vehicle that will lift off next week from Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. Soyuz is cleared for its second Arianespace launch from the Spaceport http://www.arianespace.com/Arianespace/news-mission-update/2011/873.asp December 15, 2011 Arianespace's no. 2 Soyuz mission from French Guiana has been given the launch go-ahead, moving preparations into their final phase for a nighttime liftoff tomorrow with six satellite passengers. First launch contracts for Vega: Arianespace to launch two satellites in the Sentinel-2 and Sentinel-3 families http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/12-14-2011-Vega-Premiers-contract.asp December 14, 2011 With preparations under way for the first launch of Europe's new light launcher Vega from the Guiana Space Center in French Guiana, Arianespace has signed its first commercial launch Service & Solutions contracts for Vega with the European Space Agency (ESA), on behalf of the European Union. Launcher integration is complete for Arianespace's second Soyuz to be operated from the Spaceport http://www.arianespace.com/Arianespace/news-mission-update/2011/871.asp December 13, 2011 The launcher for Arianespace's no. 2 Soyuz flight from French Guiana is now complete, following the integration of its "upper composite" containing the vehicle's Fregat upper stage, the mission's six satellite passengers and its protective payload fairing. Arianespace selected to launch MEASAT-3b http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/12-13-2011-measat-3b.asp December 13, 2011 Asia's leading satellite operator, MEASAT Global (MEASAT), has chosen Arianespace to launch the MEASAT-3b satellite. MEASAT-3b will be boosted into geostationary transfer orbit by an Ariane 5 launch vehicle from the Guiana Space Center, Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana, during the fourth quarter of 2013. Arianespace's second Soyuz is rolled out for launch at the Spaceport in French Guiana http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/870.asp December 12, 2011 In what is becoming an increasingly familiar sight at the Spaceport, another Soyuz is now erected on the launch pad and ready to receive its multi-passenger payload for Arianespace's Friday night mission from French Guiana. O3b signs agreement with Arianespace for third Soyuz launch http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/12-9-2011-o3b-agreement.asp December 9, 2011 O3b Networks Limited, the developer of a new global, high-speed, satellite-based Internet network for telecommunications operators and ISPs, has exercised the first of the two options in its contract with Arianespace for an additional launch in 2014 for the O3b Networks' satellite constellation. By exercising this option, O3b has allocated a total of three launches of 12 satellites to Arianespace. On the record with Arianespace Chairman & CEO Jean-Yves Le Gall http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2011/12-7-2011-Jean-Yves-LeGall.asp December 7, 2011 Arianespace Chairman & CEO Jean-Yves Le Gall and members of the company's management team are in Washington, D.C. this week for their traditional year-end visit and holiday event. While in the U.S. national capital city, Le Gall provided his overview on Arianespace's competitive position in the launch services marketplace, and looked forward to activities in 2012. Holiday gathering in Washington, D.C. highlights Arianespace's 2011 successes http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2011/12-7-2011-holiday-event.asp December 7, 2011 Arianespace's achievements in 2011 – and its stepped-up launch tempo for next year – were spotlighted for an American and international audience at the company's annual year-end holiday event in Washington, D.C. Soyuz' second mission from French Guiana is readied at the Spaceport http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/869.asp December 6, 2011 One of four mission campaigns currently underway for Arianespace is entering its final phase with the payload integration and completion of basic build-up for the Soyuz that will perform this medium-lift launcher's second flight from French Guiana, which remains on track for a December 16 liftoff. The Fregat upper stage and Pleiades 1 satellite are prepared for Arianespace's next Spaceport launch with Soyuz http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/868.asp December 2, 2011 The primary payload for Arianespace's second Soyuz flight from French Guiana is now undergoing fueling, while the upper stage that will orbit this Earth observation satellite and five co-passengers has completed its own "topping off" at the Spaceport. A meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/11-28-2011-JYLeGall-meets-Noda.asp November 28, 2011 Jean-Yves Le Gall, Chairman and CEO of Arianespace, and Mr. Hiromasa Yonekura, Chairman of Sumitomo Chemical Corp. and Chairman of Nippon Keidanren (the Japanese business federation), met Yoshihiko Noda, the Japanese Prime Minister, on Monday, November 28 in Tokyo. Pléiades 1 is readied for launch on Arianespace's no. 2 Soyuz mission from French Guiana http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/866.asp November 23, 2011 The Pleiades 1 Earth observation satellite payload for Arianespace's second Soyuz mission from French Guiana is undergoing pre-launch checkout at the Spaceport as this platform is readied for flight with five co-passengers. An assembly milestone is reached with the Ariane 5 that will orbit Europe's next ATV http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/865.asp November 18, 2011 Basic build-up of the Ariane 5 for Arianespace's upcoming mission with the no. 3 Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV) has been completed, as preparations continue for an early 2012 launch from the Spaceport to service the International Space Station. Arianespace to launch satellite for DIRECTV Latin America http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/11-14-2011-DirecTV.asp November 14, 2011 Arianespace and DIRECTV announced today a new launch contract for a satellite providing services for DIRECTV Latin America. The launch will take place in 2014 from Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana on an Ariane 5. Three launchers on the equator! http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/11-8-2011-3-launchers-equator.asp November 8, 2011 On November 7, for the first time in the history of Arianespace, the company's operating teams were all deployed concurrently on the Ariane, Soyuz and Vega launch pads at the Guiana Space Center in French Guiana, near the Equator, for three launch preparation campaigns. Launcher build-up begins for Arianespace's third Ariane 5 mission to orbit an Automated Transfer Vehicle http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/864.asp November 7, 2011 The Ariane 5 for Arianespace's third flight to service the International Space Station has begun its build-up at the Spaceport, preparing this heavy-lift launcher for an early 2012 mission from French Guiana with a European Automated Transfer Vehicle cargo resupply vessel. Launcher build-up begins for Arianespace's third Ariane 5 mission to orbit an Automated Transfer Vehicle http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/864.asp November 7, 2011 The Ariane 5 for Arianespace's third flight to service the International Space Station has begun its build-up at the Spaceport, preparing this heavy-lift launcher for an early 2012 mission from French Guiana with a European Automated Transfer Vehicle cargo resupply vessel. Arianespace to launch Australian satellite Optus 1 http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/10-31-2011-OPTUS.asp October 31, 2011 Paul O'Sullivan, Optus Chief Executive, and Jean-Yves Le Gall, Chairman and CEO of Arianespace, announced today in Sydney, Australia that the Optus 10 satellite would be launched into geostationary transfer orbit mid-2013 by an Ariane 5 from the Guiana Space Center, Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana. Success of the 1,778th launch of Soyuz http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/10-30-2011-1778-soyuz-success.asp October 30, 2011 The 1,778th flight of a Soyuz launch vehicle was performed on Sunday, 30 October 2011 from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan at 14:11 Moscow time (11:11 Paris time). Vega getting ready for exploitation http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/10-28-2011-vega-contract.asp October 28, 2011 The Flight Readiness Review (FFR) for the Vega launcher was held in Frascati, Italy on October 13 and 14. Based on this review, the Director-General of the European Space Agency (ESA) decided to start the Vega qualification launch campaign, with Arianespace's operating staff providing their support for this campaign. The Arianespace launcher family comes together in French Guiana http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/859.asp October 26, 2011 Arianespace's full launcher family is now an operational reality as flight-ready versions of all three vehicles - Ariane 5, Soyuz and Vega - are together at the Spaceport for the first time, positioning them for upcoming missions with payloads that range from compact scientific and educational spacecraft to a large resupply vessel for the International Space Station. Vega arrives at French Guiana in preparation for its January 26 inaugural launch http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/861.asp October 25, 2011 The first lightweight Vega was delivered to the Spaceport today, with this latest member of Arianespace's expanded launcher family arriving only days after the service entry of its other new vehicle - the medium-lift Soyuz. Arianespace scores a double success with its historic first Soyuz launch from the Spaceport http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/vs01-success.asp October 21, 2011 Arianespace opened a new chapter in space history today with a milestone double mission success that marked the Soyuz launcher's inaugural flight from French Guiana, and which placed Europe's first two Galileo navigation satellites into orbit. Arianespace Flight VS01: Soyuz ST-B - Galileo IOV-1; Launch set for Friday, October 21, 2011 http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/10-20-2011-Flight-VS01-new-launch-date.asp October 20, 2011 Following the work performed on the Soyuz launch facility and the associated additional checks, Arianespace has decided to restart the countdown operations for the launch VS01, Soyuz STB - Galileo IOV-1. Liftoff of the Soyuz ST-B launcher is now set for Friday, October 21. The historic liftoff nears for Arianespace's first Soyuz mission from French Guiana http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/855.asp October 19, 2011 Arianespace's history-making Soyuz maiden flight from the Spaceport has passed one of its final clearance steps with today's launch readiness review, verifying the "go" status for this medium-lift vehicle's morning liftoff from French Guiana tomorrow. Soyuz confirms its payload flexibility in missions from the Spaceport http://www.arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2011/2011-10-19-soyuz-update.asp October 19, 2011 Arianespace is demonstrating the mission flexibility of its new Soyuz launcher family member beginning with the medium-lift vehicle's first two flights, which use different dispenser systems to accommodate multiple payloads on missions from French Guiana. Soyuz mission profile: Thierry Wilmart, Arianespace Mission Manager http://www.arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2011/2011-10-19-soyuz-mission-profile-wilmart.asp October 19, 2011 The maiden flight of Soyuz from French Guiana not only marks a new step in Arianespace's development of a comprehensive launcher family, it also widens the role of the company's Mission Managers - who work with payload customers from contract signature to the orbiting of their spacecraft. Soyuz is revealed in the launch-ready configuration for its October 20 maiden flight from French Guiana http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/853.asp October 17, 2011 Arianespace's newest member of its launcher family has made a debut appearance in French Guiana as the initial Soyuz to be operated from the Spaceport was revealed in its entirety for the first time during final preparations for an October 20 liftoff. Soyuz rolls out for its maiden flight from French Guiana http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/851.asp October 14, 2011 Arianespace's expansion of its commercial launcher family took a major step closer to reality with today's rollout of the first medium-lift Soyuz to be operated from the Spaceport in French Guiana. Doubling up on Soyuz for Arianespace's Spaceport introduction of the medium-lift launcher http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/850.asp October 12, 2011 Space launch history is being made at a dual pace in French Guiana as the first two Soyuz missions are readied for Arianespace's introduction of this medium-lift workhorse vehicle from its new operations base at the Spaceport. A “workout” for Soyuz' launch site in preparation for the October 20 maiden flight http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/849.asp October 11, 2011 The Spaceport's launch infrastructure is being put through its paces in final preparation for this Friday's rollout of the no. 1 Soyuz that will perform the Russian-built vehicle's historic first flight from French Guiana on October 20. Soyuz' first launch campaign at the Spaceport enters its next phase of preparations http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/848.asp October 10, 2011 Activities are in full swing across the Spaceport as its launch campaign for Soyuz' maiden flight from French Guiana moves ahead for the historic liftoff on October 20. On-time preparations continue for Soyuz' milestone mission from French Guiana http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/847.asp October 7, 2011 Preparations for the first Soyuz launch from French Guiana are on track for its historic liftoff later this month with two Galileo navigation satellites. The first Vega for launch is heading to the Spaceport in French Guiana http://www.arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2011/10-05-2011-vega-update.asp October 5, 2011 Stocked aboard the MN Colibri roll-on/roll-off ship, the Vega is scheduled to depart Rotterdam in the Netherlands tomorrow on a transatlantic crossing to French Guiana for unloading and transfer to the Spaceport. Success of the 1,776th launch of Soyuz http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/10-03-2011-1776th-soyuz-success.asp October 3, 2011 The 1,776th flight of a Soyuz launch vehicle was performed on Monday, 3 October 2011 from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome in Russia at 00:15 Moscow time (22:15 Paris time on Sunday, 2 October 2011). Arianespace to launch Mexican satellite Mexsat 3 http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/9-29-2011-Mexsat3.asp September 29, 2011 Mexican government's communications and transport administration, Secretaria de Comunicaciones y Transportes, has awarded a contract to Arianespace to launch the country's new Mexsat 3 telecommunications satellite. The Spaceport's ELA-2 launch facility is dismantled after an illustrious career http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2011/9-26-2011-ela2-dismantled.asp September 26, 2011 A chapter in commercial launcher history is coming to a close as the Spaceport's ELA-2 launch site - which hosted 119 missions of the Ariane 2, 3 and 4 vehicles during 17 years - undergoes a controlled dismantling in French Guiana. Arabsat-5C and SES-2 are orbited on Arianespace's fifth Ariane 5 flight of 2011 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/846-va204-success.asp September 21, 2011 Telecommunications satellites for two key Arianespace customers were launched tonight on the company's fifth Ariane 5 flight of 2011, extending the heavy-lift workhorse's string of consecutive successes to 46. Arianespace Flight VA204: Ariane 5 ECA - ARABSAT 5C - SES-2 Launch slated on the night of 21 September http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/9-21-2011-va204-new-launch-date.asp September 21, 2011 Since the facilities at the Guiana Space Center are now available, Arianespace has decided to restart the launch chronology of Arianespace Flight VA204. Ariane VA204 - ARABSAT 5 C - SES-2: launch postponement http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/9-20-2011-va204-launch-delay.asp September 20, 2011 The Trade Union of French Guiana Workers (UTG), has just started a strike action within the TELESPAZIO company. This action will make unavailable means of measurement in the Space Center which are absolutely necessary for the VA204 launch planned this Tuesday, September 20. Ariane 5 moves to the launch zone with Arabsat-5C and SES-2 for Arianespace's fifth heavy-lift flight of 2011 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/843.asp September 19, 2011 The 60th Ariane 5 launch vehicle has rolled out at the Spaceport for tomorrow night's liftoff on a mission that will carry another of its dual-satellite payloads at the service of Arianespace's international customer base. It's a "go" for Arianespace's Ariane 5 dual-payload mission with Arabsat-5C and SES-2 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/842.asp September 18, 2011 Today's launch readiness review for Arianespace's fifth Ariane 5 launch of 2011 has given the green light for its September 20 liftoff on a mission that will orbit the Arabsat-5C and SES-2 satellites from the Spaceport in French Guiana. Build-up is underway for the no. 1 Soyuz to be launched from French Guiana http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/841.asp September 16, 2011 The first Soyuz to be operated from French Guiana has begun the integration process, marking a major step toward Arianespace's introduction of the workhorse medium-lift vehicle into its launcher family at the Spaceport. Arianespace to launch BepiColombo spacecraft on first European mission to Mercury http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/9-15-2011-BepiColombo.asp September 15, 2011 The European Space Agency (ESA) and Arianespace today announced the signature of a contract for the launch of the BepiColombo spacecraft, designed to explore the planet Mercury. Arianespace at World Satellite Business Week 2011 http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/9-13-2011-Euroconsult.asp September 13, 2011 The world's first launch services company, founded in 1980, Arianespace continues to confirm its world leadership at the World Satellite Business Week conference organized by Euroconsult from September 12 to 16. Success breeds success: Arianespace remains "ahead of the pack" in global launch services http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2011/9-13-2011.asp September 13, 2011 Arianespace's dedication to reliability is once again showing its full benefits as the company retains a clear leadership position in the global launch services industry - building on Ariane 5's continued heavy-lift success from French Guiana, which is to be joined soon at the Spaceport by the medium-lift Soyuz and lightweight Vega. Arianespace to launch up to four satellites for DIRECTV http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/9-13-2011-directv.asp September 13, 2011 Arianespace announced today that it will launch two satellites for DIRECTV and has the option of launching another two satellites for one of the world's leading providers of television entertainment services. Ariane flight with ATV Edoardo Amaldi: Europe's third Automated Transfer Vehicle begins its preparations for launch on Ariane 5 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/835.asp August 31, 2011 The preparation campaign for Europe's third Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV) has begun in French Guiana as this large cargo resupply spacecraft is readied for a spring 2012 Ariane 5 launch by Arianespace to service the International Space Station. Arianespace Flight VA204: Ariane 5 ECA - Arabsat 5C - SES-2; Supplementary checks http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/8-31-2011.asp August 31, 2011 Arianespace has decided to carry out supplementary checks on the engine powering the ESC-A cryogenic upper-stage in order to guarantee the highest level of quality of the Ariane 5 ECA launcher to be used on Flight VA204. These operations will take a few days, after which the launch date of VA204 will be announced. Ariane 5's upper payload completes its integration at the Spaceport http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/837.asp August 30, 2011 Integration of the upper portion of Ariane 5's dual-passenger "stack" has been completed, with the Arabsat-5C satellite and SYLDA dispenser system now encapsulated inside the launcher's payload fairing in preparation for the September 9 Arianespace mission from French Guiana. This encapsulation occurred today at the Spaceport's Final Assembly Building, adjacent to where the Ariane 5 is waiting to receive Arabsat-5C and the mission's co-passenger, SES-2. Preparations for Arianespace's next Ariane 5 mission enter the payload integration phase http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/836.asp August 29, 2011 Payload integration for Arianespace's fifth Ariane 5 mission of 2011 has begun with installation of the Arabsat-5C satellite atop the SYLDA dual-payload dispenser system at the Spaceport in French Guiana. Arabsat-5C will ride as the upper passenger in Ariane 5's payload "stack," being released first during the flight sequence. Positioned on the canister-shaped dispenser, the Arabsat-5C/SYLDA combination is ready to be encapsulated inside the Ariane 5's payload fairing, and then installed over the lower passenger - SES-2 - which will be mated atop launcher's core section. The next ATV resupply spacecraft arrives for Arianespace's 2012 mission to service the International Space Station http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/834.asp August 26, 2011 Arianespace's role in supporting the International Space Station's continuing operations was underscored with the arrival of Europe's third Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV) resupply vessel in French Guiana, which is to be launched next year by an Ariane 5 for servicing of the crewed facility in Earth orbit. The ATV Edoardo Amaldi - named after the Italian cosmic ray physicist who was a founding father of European space research - is now at the Spaceport after arriving yesterday in French Guiana aboard the MN Toucan. Two more Soyuz missions are planned this year to launch Globalstar's second-generation satellites http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/831.asp August 19, 2011 Preparations for two additional Soyuz launches are now underway at Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan for missions to be performed by Arianespace's Starsem affiliate before year-end in building up Globalstar's second-generation satellite constellation. Arianespace has been contracted to conduct a total of four such launches, carrying six satellites on each flight for Globalstar's mobile satellite voice and mobile satellite handset data services. Ariane 5 maintains Arianespace's track record of success http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/828-success.asp August 6, 2011 Arianespace orbited a pair of commercial relay satellites for direct television broadcasting services tonight on Ariane 5's fourth heavy-lift mission of 2011. During a 38-minute flight from the Spaceport in French Guiana, this workhorse vehicle lofted the ASTRA 1N and BSAT-3c/JCSAT-110R spacecraft, delivering an estimated payload lift performance to geostationary transfer orbit of 9,095 kg. – which included a combined mass of 8,240 kg. for the two satellites, along with the launcher's dual-payload dispenser system and associated integration hardware. Ariane 5 is authorized for its dual-payload flight on August 5 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/825.asp August 3, 2011 The green light has been given for Friday's Ariane 5 mission with the ASTRA 1N and BSAT-3c/JCSAT-110R spacecraft. Its go-ahead followed today's successful launch readiness review, which validated the status of Ariane 5 and its dual satellite payload, the launch infrastructure at Europe's Spaceport, and the network of downrange tracking stations. This authorization clears the way for Ariane 5's rollout from its Final Assembly Building to the ELA-3 launch zone, which will take place tomorrow. Liftoff of the Ariane 5 is planned during a launch window that opens on August 5 at 6:53 p.m. local time in French Guiana. Arianespace receives the next Ariane 5 for launch in 2011 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/807.asp June 14, 2011 The Spaceport’s Final Assembly Building has welcomed its fourth heavy-lift Ariane 5 of 2011 as preparations in French Guiana advance for Arianespace’s upcoming mission with the ASTRA 1N and BSAT-3c/JCSAT-110R spacecraft. Another Ariane 5 is delivered to the Spaceport in French Guiana http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/806.asp June 10, 2011 Arianespace is keeping up its Ariane 5 mission pace with this week's arrival of components in French Guiana for the fifth heavy-lift vehicle to be launched from the Spaceport in 2011. BSAT-3c/JCSAT-110R is delivered for Ariane 5’s next flight http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/804.asp June 6, 2011 The BSAT-3c/JCSAT-110R relay satellite for Arianespace's fourth Ariane 5 mission of 2011 has been delivered to French Guiana, arriving at Cayenne's Rochambeau International Airport aboard a chartered An-124 cargo jetliner. Built by Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems on behalf of B-SAT Corporation and SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation, BSAT-3c/JCSAT-110R will serve as a hybrid broadcasting and telecommunications satellite – operating from an orbital position of 110 degrees East longitude. The satellite – which has been transferred to the Spaceport's clean room facilities for pre-launch preparations – will be orbited along with its co-passenger, ASTRA 1N, on a dual-payload Ariane 5 mission scheduled for liftoff on July 1. ASTRA 1N arrives in French Guiana http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/802.asp May 20, 2011 The first of two satellite payloads for Ariane 5’s next heavy-lift flight has been delivered to French Guiana, arriving at Rochambeau International Airport near the capital city of Cayenne aboard a chartered Antonov An-124 cargo jetliner. Designed and manufactured by EADS Astrium for satellite operator SES ASTRA, the ASTRA 1N spacecraft will deliver direct-to-home broadcast services – including digital and high definition television – with pan-European coverage. The satellite will be orbited along with its co-passenger, BSAT 3c/JCSAT 110R, on another of Ariane 5’s trademark dual-payload missions in early July. Arianespace launches ST-2 and GSAT-8 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/801.asp May 20, 2011 Ariane 5 soared to another success today, orbiting spacecraft for Asia and India on Arianespace’s third heavy-lift mission of 2011. Lifting off from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana, the Ariane 5 ECA deployed its dual-satellite payload of ST-2 and GSAT-8 during a 31-minute mission – which also marked the 44th consecutive on-target flight for this workhorse launch vehicle. ARIANE 5 ROLLS OUT WITH ST-2 AND GSAT-8 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/799.asp May 19, 2011 Arianespace’s Ariane 5 has moved to the launch zone for its May 20 liftoff from the Spaceport in French Guiana with a dual payload of satellites for Asia and India. This will be the third Arianespace mission of 2011, and it rolled out to the launch zone today – fitted with the GSAT-8 and ST-2 spacecraft. ST-2 will provide IP-based fixed and mobile, voice and data transmission satellite services to businesses in Asia and the Middle East; while GSAT-8 is to deliver direct-to-home TV broadcast services. Ariane 5 is authorized for its dual-payload flight on May 20 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/797.asp May 17, 2011 The second of two Ariane 5 mission campaigns currently underway at the Spaceport has reached a new milestone with the completion of its vehicle’s basic build-up in French Guiana. During activity in the Spaceport’s Launcher Integration Building, this Ariane 5 was initially topped-off with the incorporation of its ESC-A cryogenic upper stage and the vehicle equipment bay – which were installed as a single unit. Initial “top-off” is performed with the fourth Ariane 5 for launch this year http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/798.asp May 17, 2011 The "green light" has been given for Ariane 5's heavy-lift mission with the GSAT-8 and ST-2 spacecraft. Its go-ahead followed today's successful launch readiness review (May 17), which validated the status of Ariane 5 and its dual-satellite payload, the launch infrastructure at Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana, and the network of downrange tracking stations. This authorization clears the way for Ariane 5's rollout from its Final Assembly Building to the Spaceport's ELA-3 launch zone, which will take place on Thursday, May 19. Liftoff of the Ariane 5 is planned on May 20 at 5:38 p.m. local time in French Guiana. ARIANESPACE’S THIRD ARIANE 5 OF 2011 RECEIVES ITS INITIAL SATELLITE PASSENGER http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/796.asp May 13, 2011 Preparations for the May 19 dual-payload mission with Ariane 5 are now in their final phase as the GSAT-8 Indian satellite has been integrated on its launcher. GSAT-8 will ride as the lower spacecraft in Ariane 5's dual-payload "stack," clearing the way for installation of the ST-2 satellite as the upper passenger. The Indian Space Research Organization designed, assembled and integrated GSAT-8 for direct television broadcasting and aircraft navigation assistance; while ST-2 was built by Japan's Mitsubishi Electric Company and will be operated for telecommunications relay duties by ST-2 Satellite Ventures Pte Ltd. - a joint venture of Singapore Telecommunications Limited (SingTel) and Chunghwa Telecom Company Limited (Chunghwa). THE FOURTH ARIANE 5 BEGINS ITS BUILD-UP AT THE SPACEPORT FOR LAUNCH IN 2011 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/795.asp May 12, 2011 Assembly of the fourth Ariane 5 for launch this year is now underway in French Guiana for a mission to orbit the BSAT-3c/JCSAT-110R and ASTRA 1N relay satellites. The vehicle is taking shape in the Spaceport’s Launcher Integration Building, and this flight will follow a May 19 mission with Ariane 5 that is to loft the ST-2 and GSAT-8 satellites. FINAL PAYLOAD INTEGRATION BEGINS FOR ARIANESPACE’S NEXT ARIANE 5 MISSION http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/794.asp May 9, 2011 The third Ariane 5 flight of 2011 has entered its final preparation phase with the ST-2 satellite’s installation on the launcher’s SYLDA dual-passenger dispenser system during activity at the Spaceport in French Guiana. ST-2 will be positioned in the upper slot of the mission’s payload “stack,” joining its GSAT-8 co-passenger on Arianespace’s May 19 flight. With a liftoff mass of 5,090-kg., ST-2 will be the second Mitsubishi Electric Corporation-built satellite orbited by Arianespace. It is to be utilized by the ST-2 Satellite Ventures joint company of Singapore Telecommunications Ltd (SingTel) and Taiwan’s Chunghwa Telecom Company Ltd. for Ku- and C-band relay services across the Middle East, Central Asia, India and Southeast Asia. THREE LAUNCHERS AT THE EQUATOR FOR ARIANESPACE http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2011/5-6-2011-3-launcher-rhythm.asp May 6, 2011 Preparations are in full swing for the service introduction of Soyuz and Vega at Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana, where the third Ariane 5 for launch in 2011 also is being readied for integration of its dual-satellite payload. The stepped-up pace was evident across the Spaceport this week, with new activity at each of the launch sites for these three Arianespace vehicles. SOYUZ IS PUT THROUGH ITS PACES IN A “VIRTUAL” MISSION FROM THE SPACEPORT http://www.arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2011/2011_5_5_soyuz_update.asp May 5, 2011 A highly realistic simulated launch of Soyuz from French Guiana today marked a major step closer to this medium-lift launcher's service introduction with Arianespace. Making a "virtual" liftoff at 4:00 p.m. local time, the simulation reproduced a nominal 30-minute flight of Soyuz, concluding with a representative deployment of a 2,570 kg. broadband services relay satellite into geostationary transfer orbit. The first real Soyuz flight from the Spaceport is planned later this year. The Russian-built launcher will join Arianespace's heavy-lift Ariane 5 and the lightweight Vega, creating a family of vehicles operating at French Guiana. Final preparations are underway for Soyuz' first “virtual” flight from the Spaceport http://www.arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2011/2011_5_2_soyuz_update.asp May 2, 2011 Preparations for the simulated first flight of Soyuz from French Guiana are proceeding on schedule for a “liftoff” this week, confirming the medium-lift vehicle’s readiness to join Arianespace’s launcher family during 2011. With a fully-assembled Soyuz now on the Spaceport’s launch pad for its historic dry run exercise, mission teams have entered the final phase of preparations – providing a realistic validation of operational procedures from the vehicle’s rollout to the “virtual” liftoff and downrange mission trajectory. A world's first: Soyuz is in the launch zone at Europe's Spaceport http://www.arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2011/2011_4_29_soyuz_update.asp April 29, 2011 The latest addition to Arianespace’s launcher family made its world debut today at the vehicle’s new base of operations, as the first Soyuz was rolled out to the Spaceport’s launch pad in French Guiana. This historic event began in the morning hours, when the Russian-built medium-lift workhorse vehicle emerged from its MIK integration facility in the Spaceport’s northwest zone for a 600-meter transfer to the launch zone. ABS-2 to be launched by Arianespace in 2013 http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/4-27-2011-ABS-2.asp April 27, 2011 Arianespace has confirmed the launch date for Asia Broadcast Satellite's (ABS) ABS-2 spacecraft, which will be orbited by a heavy-lift Ariane 5 in 2013. Manufactured by Space Systems/Loral using an LS-1300 platform, ABS-2 will weigh more than 6,000 kg. at launch. It is fitted with C, Ku, and Ka-band transponders, and is to provide optimized direct TV broadcast, multimedia applications, telecommunications and data transmission services for Asia, Russia/CIS, Africa and the Middle East. GSAT-8 is put through its paces in preparation for Arianespace's Ariane 5 launch on May 19 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/791.asp April 25, 2011 The Indian GSAT-8 multi-role spacecraft for Arianespace's next Ariane 5 mission is undergoing an in-depth checkout at the Spaceport in French Guiana in preparation for its liftoff on May 19. Arianespace launches Yahsat Y1A and Intelsat New Dawn http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/789.asp April 22, 2011 Ariane 5 soared to another success today, deploying satellite payloads that will supply telecommunications services for two new customers who join the growing list of Arianespace commercial launch services users. In doing so, the workhorse launcher also set a new heavyweight record: a combined payload mass of 8,956 kg. for its Yahsat Y1A and Intelsat New Dawn satellite passengers, delivering a total lift performance of 10,050 kg. to geostationary transfer orbit. Ariane 5 is transferred to the launch zone for tomorrow’s heavy-lift flight http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/788.asp April 21, 2011 The second Ariane 5 of 2011 has moved to the ELA-3 launch zone at Europe's Spaceport, clearing the way for its April 22 evening liftoff with a dual-satellite payload of Yahsat Y1A and Intelsat New Dawn. Preparations now are underway for tomorrow's final countdown, which will lead to liftoff during a launch window that opens at 6:37 p.m. local time in French Guiana and continues until 7:41 p.m. Ariane 5's payload lift performance for this mission is nearly 10,065 kg., which includes a mass of 8,965 kg. for its two satellite passengers, along with the associated integration hardware and the launcher’s multi-payload dispenser system. Ariane 5 is authorized for its dual-payload flight on April 22 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/787.asp April 20, 2011 The "green light" has been given for Ariane 5's heavy-lift mission with the Yahsat Y1A and Intelsat New Dawn spacecraft. Its go-ahead followed today's successful launch readiness review, which validated the status of Ariane 5 and its dual-satellite payload, the launch infrastructure at Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana, and the network of downrange tracking stations. This authorization clears the way for Ariane 5's rollout from its Final Assembly Building to the ELA-3 launch zone, which will take place tomorrow. Liftoff of the Ariane 5 is planned during a launch window that opens on April 22 at 6:37 p.m. local time in French Guiana. Ariane 5 is configured for its April 22 liftoff with a dual-satellite heavyweight payload http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/786.asp April 19, 2011 Arianespace is on track for the rescheduled April 22 liftoff of its Ariane 5 mission with the Yahsat 1A and Intelsat New Dawn satellite payloads after replacement of actuators on the heavy-lift launcher's Vulcain 2 cryogenic main engine. Arianespace Japan Week 2011: 25 years of operations in Japan http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/4-19-2011-JapanWeek.asp April 19, 2011 Since opening its Tokyo office in 1986, then launching the first Japanese commercial satellite, JCSAT-1, in 1989, Arianespace has become a major partner to Japanese manufacturers and operators. During its annual Japan Week conference in Tokyo, Arianespace confirmed its continued global leadership. Ariane 5's dual-payload launch is set for April 22 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/784.asp April 11, 2011 Arianespace's second heavy-lift flight of 2011 is now scheduled for the evening of April 22, based on the additional checkout and verifications currently in progress for the Ariane 5 ECA launcher following the final countdown's interruption on March 30. This mission is the 201st launch of an Ariane family vehicle, and will orbit a dual-payload of the Yahsat Y1A and Intelsat New Dawn satellites from Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana. Mitsubishi Electric’s ST-2 satellite arrives in French Guiana for launch on Ariane 5 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/783.asp April 6, 2011 A milestone telecommunications satellite has been delivered to the Spaceport in French Guiana for Arianespace’s Ariane 5 VA202 heavy-lift mission, which will be performed as part of the company’s busy 2011 launch schedule. The ST-2 relay platform arrived yesterday aboard an Antonov An-124 cargo jetliner at Rochambeau International Airport near the French Guiana capital city of Cayenne – clearing the way for its transfer to the Spaceport’s clean room facilities, where the pre-launch checkout process will be implemented. India’s GSAT-8 is delivered to French Guiana for its Ariane 5 launch http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/782.asp April 4, 2011 A dual-purpose Indian satellite to be orbited on another of Arianespace’s Ariane 5 missions during 2011 arrived in French Guiana today. GSAT-8 – which also is known by the INSAT-4G designation – was delivered to Rochambeau International Airport near the capital city of Cayenne, arriving aboard a chartered Antonov An-124 cargo jetliner. Processing is underway for Globalstar's second-generation satellites to be launched by Soyuz in May http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/781.asp April 1, 2011 The six Globalstar second-generation satellites to be orbited by Arianespace's next Soyuz mission from Baikonur Cosmodrome are well advanced in their preparations as activities continue for the liftoff during May. In a phased process, these 700-kg.-class spacecraft are proceeding through electrical and propulsion system checks, pressurization, fueling and weighing – readying them for integration on a conical-shaped dispenser that subsequently will be installed on the Soyuz launcher. Launch countdown interrupted for Ariane 5’s launch with Yahsat Y1A and Intelsat New Dawn http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/780.asp March 30, 2011 Data analysis is underway to determine the cause of an anomaly that interrupted the Ariane 5’s launch prior to liftoff with its Yahsat Y1A and Intelsat New Dawn satellites. The Ariane 5 and its two payloads switched to a safe mode on the launch pad. While analyses are being performed to determine the anomaly – which was detected after startup of the cryogenic main engine, but before ignition of the two solid boosters – the Ariane 5 will be rolled back to the Spaceport’s Final Assembly Building, where it is to be returned to a flight-ready condition. The second Ariane 5 flight of 2011 enters its final countdown http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/779.asp March 30, 2011 The final countdown for today’s Ariane 5 flight with the Yahsat Y1A and Intelsat New Dawn telecommunications satellites is underway at Europe's Spaceport. Liftoff of the heavy-lift vehicle is scheduled at the start of a launch window that opens at 6:45 p.m., local time in French Guiana. Ariane 5’s payload lift performance for this mission is nearly 10,065 kg., which includes a mass of 8,965 kg. for its two satellite passengers, along with the associated integration hardware and the launcher’s SYLDA multi-payload dispenser system. Ariane 5 is transferred to the launch zone for tomorrow’s heavy-lift flight http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/778.asp March 29, 2011 The second Ariane 5 of 2011 has moved to the ELA-3 launch zone at Europe's Spaceport, clearing the way for its March 30 evening liftoff with a dual-satellite payload of Yahsat Y1A and Intelsat New Dawn. Preparations now are underway for tomorrow’s final countdown, which will lead to liftoff during a launch window that opens at 6:45 p.m. local time in French Guiana and continues to 7:52 p.m. Ariane 5’s payload lift performance for this mission is nearly 10,065 kg., which includes a mass of 8,965 kg. for its two satellite passengers, along with the associated integration hardware and the launcher’s SYLDA multi-payload dispenser system. Ariane 5 is authorized for its dual-payload flight on March 30 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/777.asp March 28, 2011 The green light has been given for Wednesday's Ariane 5 mission with the Yahsat Y1A and Intelsat New Dawn spacecraft. Its go-ahead followed today's successful launch readiness review, which validated the status of Ariane 5 and its dual satellite payload, the launch infrastructure at Europe's Spaceport, and the network of downrange tracking stations. This authorization clears the way for Ariane 5's rollout from its Final Assembly Building to the ELA-3 launch zone, which will take place tomorrow. Liftoff of the Ariane 5 is planned during a launch window that opens on March 30 at 6:45 p.m. local time in French Guiana. ARIANE 5 RECEIVES THE SECOND OF ITS TWO SATELLITE PASSENGERS http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/775.asp March 23, 2011 The Ariane 5 for launch on March 30 is now complete following the integration of its Yahsat Y1A and Intelsat New Dawn satellite payloads. This mission will be Arianespace’s second Ariane 5 flight of 2011. Intelsat New Dawn is to provide supply critical communications infrastructure for African customers, while Yahsat Y1A will deliver customized relay services for the government and commercial sectors in the Middle East, Africa, Europe and Southwest Asia. INTELSAT NEW DAWN IS INTEGRATED ON ARIANE 5 FOR NEXT WEEK’S LAUNCH http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/773.asp March 22, 2011 The Intelsat New Dawn relay platform – which is the first-ever African private sector communications satellite – has been positioned atop Ariane 5’s core cryogenic stage, placing it as the lower passenger for Arianespace’s mission on March 30. Intelsat New Dawn was developed to provide supply critical communications infrastructure for African customers, and will be launched along with Yahsat Y1A on another of Ariane 5’s dual-payload flights. ARGENTINA'S ARSAT-2 SPACECRAFT TO BE ORBITED BY ARIANESPACE http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/3-14-2011-ARSAT2.asp March 14, 2011 ARSAT has selected Arianespace to launch its second satellite, Arsat-2. With a liftoff mass of about 2,900 kg., this spacecraft will be placed into geostationary transfer orbit by an Ariane 5 or Soyuz launcher operated from the Spaceport in French Guiana. To be fitted with 26 Ku-band (2 beams) and 10 C-band (hemi beam) equivalent transponders, Arsat-2 will offer a wide range of telecommunications, data transmission, Internet and television services - primarily across the Americas from Argentina to Canada. AFRICA'S FIRST PRIVATE SECTOR TELECOM SATELLITE IS READIED FOR LAUNCH http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/768.asp March 14, 2011 Pre-launch checkout is continuing at the Spaceport in French Guiana for Intelsat New Dawn, which is one of two spacecraft passengers to be orbited on Arianespace's next Ariane 5 mission, scheduled for March 29. Produced by Orbital Sciences Corporation in Dulles, Virginia, Intelsat New Dawn is equipped with 28 C-band and 24 Ku-band 36 MHz transponders designed specifically to supply critical communications infrastructure for African customers. After its deployment by Ariane 5, the satellite will be positioned at a geostationary orbital slot at 32.8° East for its Africa area coverage. THE THIRD ARIANE 5 FOR LAUNCH IN 2011 ARRIVES IN FRENCH GUIANA http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/767.asp March 11, 2011 This heavy-lift flight, set for liftoff in May, will orbit the ST-2 and GSAT-8 telecommunications satellites. ST-2 was developed for ST-2 Satellite Ventures Pte Ltd., a joint venture formed by Singapore Telecommunications Ltd (SingTel) and Chunghwa Telecom Company Ltd. GSAT-8 is a satellite for the Indian Space Research Organisation, and is equipped with 18 Ku-band transponders along with a satellite-based global positioning system called GAGAN (GPS Aided Geo Augmented Navigation). PAYLOAD PREPARATIONS UNDERWAY FOR ARIANE 5’S NEXT LAUNCH http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/765.asp February 22, 2011 The Yahsat Y1A telecommunications satellite has arrived at the Spaceport, and is undergoing its final pre-launch checkout for an Ariane 5 mission scheduled on March 29. This spacecraft will be lofted along with the Intelsat New Dawn relay platform on Arianespace’s second flight of 2011. THE ARIANE 5 FOR YAHSAT 1A AND INTELSAT NEW DAWN COMPLETES ITS INITIAL ASSEMBLY http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2011/758.asp February 9, 2011 Basic assembly of the Ariane 5 to carry Yahsat 1A and Intelsat New Dawn has been completed inside the Spaceport’s Launcher Integration Building. Following additional systems verification, it will be ready for transfer to the Final Assembly Building, where the two telecommunications satellites will be installed in a dual payload “stack.” The Vega launcher’s four stages are stacked for validation at the Spaceport http://www.arianespace.com/Arianespace/news-soyuz-vega/2011/2011_2_4_vega_update.asp February 8, 2011 The assembly of a representative Vega launcher is nearly complete at the Spaceport as part of validations for the mechanical, electrical and fluid elements of this newest member in Arianespace’s launch vehicle family at its launch site in French Guiana. After stacking the inert first, second and third solid propellant stages on the Vega launch pad, team members now have added the bi-propellant liquid upper stage, called the AVUM (Attitude and Vernier Upper Module). The next step will be installation of the payload fairing with a satellite mockup and payload adapter, followed by a loading exercise with the AVUM’s propellant. Supporting growth in the Middle East and Asia http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2011/2-8-2011-cabsat.asp February 8, 2011 Arianespace is underscoring its benchmark position for satellite operators in the Middle East and Asia with a key presence at Dubai’s CABSAT 2011 industry event. During 2011, Arianespace will launch a total of six satellites for operators in the region – beginning with a March 29 mission to orbit the Yahsat 1A satellite for Abu Dhabi-based Yahsat. Arianespace subsequently will launch five other satellites during the year for operators in Singapore, India, Japan and Arabsat. Assembly begins for the Ariane 5 to orbit Yahsat 1A and Intelsat New Dawn http://www.arianespace.com/Arianespace/news-mission-update/2011/757.asp February 4, 2011 The Ariane 5 launcher for Arianespace’s second flight of 2011 is taking shape in French Guiana, where it will be used to loft a dual payload of the Yahsat 1A and Intelsat New Dawn telecommunications satellites. Europe's ATV Johannes Kepler is integrated on Ariane 5 for its February 15 launch http://www.arianespace.com/Arianespace/news-mission-update/2011/756.asp February 4, 2011 The second Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV) to be orbited by Arianespace has been installed on its Ariane 5 launch vehicle, keeping preparations on track for a February 15 mission to service the International Space Station. The 200th Ariane is delivered for the Arianespace's mission with ATV http://www.arianespace.com/Arianespace/news-mission-update/2011/755.asp January 17, 2011 The 200th Ariane launcher has been delivered to Arianespace at the Spaceport, where it will receive the Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV) payload for a February 15 liftoff on a servicing mission to the International Space Station. ARIANESPACE SIGNS NEW LAUNCH AGREEMENT WITH EUTELSAT http://www.arianespace.com/Arianespace/news-press-release/2011/1-17-2011-Eutelsat.asp January 17, 2011 Continuing a 28-year relationship marked by 25 launch campaigns, Eutelsat Communications and Arianespace today announced they have concluded a new contract for a satellite launch in the 2012 period. The contract, signed in December 2010, for an Ariane 5 launch from the Guiana Space Centre, provides Eutelsat with launch diversity and schedule assurance for its significant in-orbit expansion programme of six satellites to be launched by mid-2013. A busy 2011 with Ariane 5 being joined by Soyuz and Vega at the Spaceport http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2011/1-4-2011-press-conference.asp January 4, 2011 Building on its highly successful performance in 2011, Arianespace plans a total of 12 missions in 2011, which will include the expansion of its launcher family with the addition of the medium-lift Soyuz and lightweight Vega at the Spaceport – joining the workhorse heavy-lift Ariane 5. Arianespace's launch manifest for the coming 12 months is composed of six Ariane 5 missions, along with two flights of Soyuz and one Vega mission from the Spaceport, as well as another three Soyuz launches from Kazakhstan’s Baikonur Cosmodrome. Arianespace closes its launch activity in 2010 with another on-target flight http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/751.asp December 29, 2010 Ariane 5 successfully orbited the Hispasat 1E and KOREASAT 6 telecommunications satellites on Arianespace's sixth and final heavy-lift mission of 2010. Lifting off from the Spaceport in French Guiana, Ariane 5 deployed its two passengers during a mission lasting 34 minutes. In another demonstration of Arianespace’s reactivity, this 41st consecutive successful flight for Ariane 5 occurred just one month after its previous mission in November. Arianespace's year-ending flight is set for December 29 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/749.asp December 29, 2010 Following a 24-hour postponement due to winds at altitude over the ELA-3 launch complex, Ariane 5's heavy-lift flight with Hispasat 1E and KOREASAT 6 is on track for a liftoff this evening from Europe's Spaceport. The final countdown is now underway, with today's liftoff planned during a launch window that opens at 6:27 p.m., local time in French Guiana. Ariane 5 rolls out to the launch zone with its dual-satellite payload http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/746.asp December 27, 2010 Fully integrated with its dual-satellite payload of Hispasat 1E and KOREASAT 6, Ariane 5 was transferred today (December 27) to the Spaceport’s ELA-3 launch zone from the Final Assembly Building. Preparations now are underway for tomorrow’s final countdown, which will lead to the liftoff during a launch window that opens at 6.26 p.m. and continues to 7:15 p.m, local time in French Guiana. Preparations continue for Ariane 5’s year-ending flight http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/744.asp December 20, 2010 The payload processing for Ariane 5’s sixth and final flight of 2010 is continuing at the Spaceport in French Guiana, where KOREASAT 6 is being readied for integration on its heavy-lift launcher. KOREASAT 6 was built by an industry team composed of Orbital Sciences Corp. and Thales Alenia Space for the Republic of Korea’s KT Corporation. This telecommunications spacecraft – along with its companion payload, Hispasat 1E – will be orbited during an Ariane 5 mission scheduled for December 28. Arianespace signs contract for a Soyuz launch of the Sentinel-1A satellite http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/12-16-2010-Sentinel1A-contract.asp December 16, 2010 The Sentinel-1A satellite for Europe's Global Monitoring for Environment and Security program will be orbited by Arianespace on a Soyuz launcher in late 2012. To operate in a Sun-synchronous circular orbit at an altitude of approximately 690 kilometers, Sentinel-1A will carry a C-band synthetic aperture radar-type sensor. Since the beginning of the year, Arianespace has signed seven contracts for dedicated Soyuz missions, along with 11 launch contracts for geostationary satellites. Basic assembly is complete for the 200th Ariane launcher http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/743.asp December 14, 2010 Initial assembly is complete for the milestone 200th Ariane for launch, as preparations continue for next February’s Ariane 5 mission that will loft a European Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV) to service the International Space Station. During activity in the Spaceport’s Launcher Integration Building, the Ariane 5 ES version of Arianespace’s heavy-lift workhorse was fitted with its equipment bay, followed by installation of the EPS upper stage. Arianespace sets December 28 for its year-ending Ariane 5 flight http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/742.asp December 14, 2010 Liftoff of the sixth Ariane 5 in 2010 – which will carry the HISPASAT 1E and KOREASAT 6 telecommunications satellite payloads – is now planned for the evening of December 28 from Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana. This mission will be the 199th flight of an Ariane family launch vehicle, and the 55th for an Ariane 5. Integration begins for the 200th Ariane launcher http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/741.asp December 6, 2010 The milestone 200th Ariane launch vehicle has begun its assembly process in French Guiana, as preparations move forward for its February 2011 mission with Europe's second Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV). This Ariane 5 ES version of Arianespace's workhorse heavy-lift launcher is being assembled in the Spaceport's Launcher Integration Building, where activity began mid-week with the core cryogenic stage's positioning over the mobile launch table. Arianespace to orbit the Sicral 2 military telecommunications satellite http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/12-6-2010-Sicral2.asp December 6, 2010 Telespazio has selected Arianespace to launch Sicral 2 within the framework of a turnkey contract the Italian Defense Ministry and the French DGA armament agency (Direction Générale de l’Armement) have with Thales Alenia Space Italy. A heavy-lift Ariane 5 is scheduled to launch this spacecraft - which will weigh approximately 4,400 kg. - from the Spaceport in French Guiana as of November 2013. Since the beginning of the year, Arianespace has signed 11 launch contracts for geostationary satellites, along with six dedicated Soyuz launches. ARIANE 5 ORBITS INTELSAT 17 AND HYLAS 1 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/739.asp November 26, 2010 Ariane 5’s fifth mission of 2010 orbited a dual payload of the Intelsat 17 and HYLAS 1 telecommunications satellites today, marking the 40th consecutive success for Arianespace’s workhorse heavy-lift launcher. Since the start of 2010, Ariane 5 has orbited 10 large telecommunications satellites out of the 17 total launched worldwide.  Intelsat 17 was the 51st satellite lofted by Arianespace for Intelsat, while HYLAS 1 is the first satellite deployed by Arianespace for Avanti Communications. ARIANE 5 IS CLEARED FOR FRIDAY’S LIFTOFF WITH INTELSAT 17 AND HYLAS 1 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/736.asp November 24, 2010 Arianespace’s fifth Ariane 5 mission of 2010 was given the go-ahead today for its November 26 liftoff with a dual payload of the Intelsat 17 and HYLAS 1 satellites. With the successful review, Ariane 5 is cleared for its rollout from the Spaceport’s Final Assembly Building to the ELA-3 launch zone, where it will be readied for liftoff on Friday during an early launch window that opens at 3:39 p.m. local time in French Guiana and continues to 6:54 p.m. The Spaceport validates propellant and fluid delivery processes for Soyuz' upcoming service introduction http://www.arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2010/2010_11_16_soyuz_launchsite_update.asp November 16, 2010 The validation of delivery methods for propellant and fluids used in Soyuz operations at the French Guiana launch site is nearing completion as preparations continue for this medium-lift vehicle's maiden flight next year. The means of supplying liquid oxygen, liquid nitrogen and hydrogen peroxide to the Soyuz launch pad have now been confirmed, while final evaluations for the delivery of kerosene are to be carried out in November and December. Liquid oxygen and kerosene are the propellants for Soyuz' first, second and third stages; liquid nitrogen provides onboard pressurization and inerting; while hydrogen peroxide is used to drive gas turbines that power the launcher's turbopumps. The sixth Ariane 5 for launch in 2010 arrives at the Spaceport http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/735.asp November 11, 2010 Components for another Ariane 5 are now at the Spaceport as Arianespace maintains its sustained launch rate for 2010 and beyond. Arriving aboard the MN Toucan roll-on/roll-off ship, this heavy-lift launcher is to orbit the Hispasat 1E and KOREASAT 6 satellites. Ariane 5 is ready to receive its Intelsat 17 and Hylas 1 payloads http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/734.asp November 8, 2010 The Ariane 5 for Arianespace's fifth heavy-lift mission of 2010 has moved to the Final Assembly Building at the Spaceport in French Guiana, where it will be fitted with a dual-passenger payload of the Intelsat 17 and HYLAS 1 satellites. Liftoff of this flight is set for November 25, and will be the 198th launch of an Ariane family launcher. Arianespace selected to launch initial satellite for Azerbaijan http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/11-05-2010-azerbaijan-contract.asp November 5, 2010 The International Relations and Accounting Center of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technologies of the Republic of Azerbaijan has chosen Arianespace to launch the country’s first communications satellite. The spacecraft – to be orbited during a heavy-lift Ariane 5 mission by the end of 2012 – will be built by Orbital Sciences Corporation using a STAR-2 platform. It is to deliver a wide range of communications services for all of Azerbaijan, as well as Central Asia, Europe, Middle East and Africa. The first Vega hardware moves to the launch pad http://www.arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2010/2010_11_05_vega-update.asp November 5, 2010 A representative P80 first stage for Vega has rolled out to the launch pad in French Guiana, marking the initial step in combined testing of this lightweight vehicle with its ground-based infrastructure. The P80 stage was developed by Italy’s Avio for Vega program prime contractor ELV, and is one of the largest, most powerful one-piece solid-propellant boosters ever built. It utilizes a novel filament-wound case, and will burn 88 metric tons of propellant during a powered flight lasting 109 seconds. Payload preparations are underway for Arianespace's fifth Ariane 5 mission of 2010 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/733.asp October 29, 2010 The Intelsat 17 and HYLAS 1 satellites for Arianespace’s fifth heavy-lift Ariane 5 flight of 2010 are undergoing their checkout at the Spaceport in French Guiana. This mission is set for November 25, and follows yesterday's dual-payload launch with the W3B and BSAT-3b satellites. Soyuz delivers with another mission success http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/729.asp October 20, 2010 Six satellites for Globalstar’s second-generation constellation are now in orbit following Arianespace’s latest on-target Soyuz flight, which was conducted today by its Starsem affiliate from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. This successful mission is the first of four Soyuz launches booked with Arianespace to deploy a total of 24 second-generation satellites, which will support Globalstar’s current lineup of voice, Duplex and Simplex data products and services. Soyuz moves to the launch pad with its six Globalstar second-generation satellites http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/728.asp October 16, 2010 The first mission with Globalstar's second-generation satellites is now being readied for liftoff following the Soyuz vehicle's rollout to the launch pad at Baikonur Cosmodrome during the morning hours of October 16. This clears the way for final check-out and the countdown leading to Soyuz' launch of the six Globalstar spacecraft on October 19 at 11:10 p.m. local time in Kazakhstan. The mission will be performed for Arianespace by its Starsem affiliate. Soyuz 2 is cleared for rollout to the launch pad with its six Globalstar satellites http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/726.asp October 14, 2010 The Soyuz 2 launcher with six Globalstar second-generation satellites has completed its assembly, and is now cleared for a rollout to Launch Pad #6 at Baikonur Cosmodrome in the morning hours of October 16. This mission, to be performed for Arianespace by its Starsem affiliate, will lift off from the Cosmodrome on October 19, and is the first of four flights to deploy a total of 24 Globalstar spacecraft. Final integration underway for the Soyuz 2 mission with six Globalstar satellites http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/725.asp October 14, 2010 Launcher integration has moved into the final phase for next week's Soyuz 2 mission, which will orbit six Globalstar satellites from Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. The October 19 mission will be performed on behalf of Arianespace by its Starsem affiliate, and is the first of four flights to orbit 24 of Globalstar's second-generation spacecraft - ensuring continuity for the company's mobile satellite voice and data services that are provided to businesses, governments and consumers. Globalstar's six satellites are ready for integration on Soyuz http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/724.asp October 11, 2010 The payload of six Globalstar satellites for Arianespace's upcoming Soyuz mission has been encapsulated in the protective ST payload fairing at Baikonur Cosmodrome, clearing the way for its integration on the launch vehicle for an October 19 liftoff. This upcoming mission is one of four contracted by Globalstar to orbit 24 of its second-generation spacecraft – ensuring continuity for the company's mobile satellite voice and data services that are provided to businesses, governments and consumers. Launch system manufacturers define objectives for next year http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/10-11-2010-launch-system-manufacturers-meeting.asp October 11, 2010 Manufacturers involved in the Ariane 5, Soyuz and Vega programs have met at Arianespace's industrial session to jointly define directions and objectives for 2011. This annual gathering brings together all European manufacturers of launch systems, including both launch vehicles and facilities. The 2nd ATV is readied for its 2011 launch http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/722.asp October 7, 2010 Pre-launch preparations have advanced for Arianespace's upcoming mission with the second Automated Transfer Vehicle, which will be orbited on Ariane's milestone 200th flight. Recent activity in the Spaceport's S5 payload preparation facility includes loading of the spacecraft's cargo and a validation of its solar panel deployment sequence. Named after the German astronomer and mathematician Johannes Kepler, the ATV is targeted for a February 15, 2011 liftoff on Ariane 5. Cargo flight to International Space Station is set http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/10-01-2010-launch-manifest-update-atv2.asp October 1, 2010 The launch timing for Ariane 5's mission with the Johannes Kepler ATV has been confirmed for February 15, 2010. This spacecraft is designed to deliver over seven tons of experiments, fuel, water, food and other supplies to the International Space Station. The first ATV, Jules Verne, was launched by Arianespace in March 2008. Six Globalstar satellites are integrated for Arianespace's October 19 flight http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/720.asp October 1, 2010 Integration is now complete with the six Globalstar satellites for Arianespace's upcoming Soyuz mission from Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. The second-generation Globalstar spacecraft were installed in sequence on the two segments of their 6.7-meter-high conical-shaped dispenser system, which then were assembled together on September 29. Arianespace Board approves launch planning for 2010-2011 http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/09-20-2010-board-meeting.asp September 20, 2010 At a meeting held today in Evry, France, Arianespace’s Board of Directors approved the launch manifest for 2010 and 2011, congratulated the company on its record order book and began operations to strengthen its financial structure. Europe's Metop-C satellite to be launched by Arianespace http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/09-10-2010-metop-c-contract.asp September 10, 2010 The European meteorological satellite organization EUMETSAT has selected Arianespace to launch its Metop-C spacecraft. The 4,250-kg. satellite will be placed into polar orbit by a Soyuz launch vehicle operated from the Spaceport in French Guiana. Metop-C will be fitted with a dozen instruments designed to take atmospheric measurements at different altitudes, and to map temperatures and wind fields on the ocean surface. Globalstar's six satellites are prepared for launch http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/718.asp September 7, 2010 The launch campaign for Arianespace's upcoming Soyuz mission for Globalstar has entered a new phase as all six spacecraft are now at Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. Scheduled for a liftoff on October 19, this milestone flight will use a Soyuz 2 version of Russia's workhorse launcher. Arianespace outlines the future of launch services http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2010/09-07-2010-wsbw.asp September 7, 2010 At Arianespace's traditional 2010 World Space Business Week conference press breakfast in Paris, Chairman & CEO Jean-Yves Le Gall provided an overview of the company's activity and offered his perspective on the satellite market's future. "At a time when the customers are insisting on a high level of service, we see them coming to Arianespace because of our strong commitment to quality, efficiency, flexibility and reliability," Le Gall told international reporters. "They also appreciate our philosophy of a single-point of contact from contract signature to satellite delivery in orbit, as well as our proximity to customers with Arianespace's worldwide presence." Two new launch contracts announced by Arianespace http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/archive.asp August 5, 2010 Arianespace has further underscored its leadership position in the commercial launch services sector with a pair of new contracts announced today. These two agreements - for the Intelsat-20 and GSAT 10 spacecraft - bring to 32 the number of satellites on backlog to be lofted by Arianespace, along with six Automated Transfer Vehicles for servicing of the International Space Station. Another heavy-lift success for Ariane 5 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/714.asp August 4, 2010 Ariane 5 successfully lofted a pair of Thales Alenia Space-produced satellites from the Spaceport in French Guiana today - marking the heavy-lift vehicle's 38th consecutive on-target mission. Lifting off from the Spaceport's ELA-3 launch zone, the Ariane 5 ECA orbited two satellites that will provide telecommunications services to Africa, the Middle East and Persian Gulf states: NILESAT 201 for Egyptian-based Nilesat, and RASCOM-QAF1R for the Pan-African satellite operator, RascomStar-QAF. Ariane 5 clears initial build-up phase for fourth flight of 2010 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/715.asp August 4, 2010 Initial assembly is complete for the fourth Ariane 5 to be launched this year, as preparations continue for another of Arianespace's trademark dual-satellite payload missions. During activity inside the Launcher Integration Building, the heavy-lift Ariane 5 was fitted with its ESC-A upper stage and vehicle equipment bay - which were installed as a single unit. This launch vehicle will orbit Eutelsat's W3B telecommunications satellite and the BSAT-3b relay platform for B-SAT Corporation during a mission scheduled on September 15. Ariane 5 rolls out to the launch zone with its dual-satellite payload http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/711.asp August 3, 2010 The heavy-lift Ariane 5 is ready for its third mission of 2010 following today's rollout to the ELA-3 launch facility from the Spaceport’s Final Assembly Building. This August 4 flight will orbit the NILESAT 201 and RASCOM-QAF1R spacecraft, with liftoff scheduled during a launch window that opens at 5:45 p.m. local time in French Guiana. Ariane 5 is authorized for its dual-payload flight http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/710.asp August 2, 2010 The green light has been given for Wednesday's Ariane 5 mission with the NILESAT 201 and RASCOM-QAF1R spacecraft following today's launch readiness review at the Spaceport. This go-ahead clears the way for Ariane 5's rollout from its Final Assembly Building to the ELA-3 launch zone, which will take place tomorrow. Liftoff of the Ariane 5 is planned during a launch window that opens at 5:45 p.m. local time on August 4 in French Guiana. Ariane 5 takes center stage at Hughes headquarters http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2010/07-30-2010-hughes-headquarters.asp July 30, 2010 The strong working relationship between Arianespace and Hughes Network Systems was underscored with the unveling of a large Ariane 5 scale model at the North American satellite operator's headquarters in Germantown, Maryland. The model was unveiled earlier this week by Arianespace Chairman & CEO Jean-Yves Le Gall and Pradman Kaul, CEO of Hughes Network Systems. Enhancing the Spaceport for Ariane 5 and Soyuz http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2010/07-30-2010-oxygen-nitrogen-factory.asp July 30, 2010 A new liquid oxygen and liquid nitrogen production plant is being readied for service at the Spaceport in French Guiana. The new plant - which is to replace an existing 30-year-old facility - will offer a higher production output for liquid oxygen and liquid nitrogen, as well as significantly larger storage capacity. Its acceptance phase is expected to be completed by the end of 2010. Another Ariane 5 takes shape at the Spaceport http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/709.asp July 28, 2010 Initial assembly of the fourth Ariane 5 for liftoff in 2010 has begun in the Spaceport's Integration Building. The build-up of this latest vehicle began earlier this week with the erection of its core cryogenic stage. The next step is the mating of the launcher's two solid rocket motors, which are installed on each side of the core cryogenic stage. This will be followed by a "topping off" of the vehicle with its ESC-A cryogenic upper stage and the vehicle equipment bay. Ariane 5 is ready to enter the final launch preparation phase http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/708.asp July 26, 2010 The Ariane 5 for Arianespace's third mission in 2010 is ready to receive its dual-satellite payload in advance of next week's launch from the Spaceport. During the mission, this Ariane 5 ECA will carry a pair of Thales Alenia Space-produced spacecraft: NILESAT 201 and RASCOM-QAF1R. Both satellites have been undergoing processing following their June arrival in French Guiana. Jean-Yves Le Gall prepares Europe-Japan council meeting http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2010/07-08-2010-europe-japan-council-meeting.asp July 8, 2010 A planning session for the next European Union-Japan Business Round Table meeting was led by Arianespace's Chairman and CEO Jean-Yves Le Gall. This "brainstorming" gathering was held at the European Union in Brussels, and involved a group of business representatives who joined Le Gall, along with another group that participated from Tokyo by video conference. Final checkout is underway with the two payloads for Ariane 5's next launch http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/707.asp July 7, 2010 Pre-launch preparations for both satellite payloads on Ariane 5's next heavy-lift launch are in full swing at the Spaceport in French Guiana. The Nilesat-201 and RASCOM-QAF1R satellites - both of which were built by Thales Alenia Space - have completed fit-check milestones with the adapters that will serve as their interface with Ariane 5's payload "stack." Thales Alenia Space delivers its two satellite payloads for Arianespace's next Ariane 5 mission http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/706.asp July 1, 2010 The two Thales Alenia Space-built payloads for Arianespace's next Ariane 5 mission have arrived at the Spaceport to begin their pre-launch checkout for a liftoff scheduled on August 3. Nilesat-201 and RASCOM-QAF1R were flown to French Guiana aboard the same chartered An-124 cargo jetliner, which landed at Cayenne's Rochambeau International Airport this week. The no. 2 Automated Transfer Vehicle begins its checkout http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2010/06-30-2010-atv2-keppler-update.asp June 30, 2010 The second Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV) for launch by Ariane 5 is now undergoing its final assembly and checkout in French Guiana. Named after German astronomer and mathematician Johannes Kepler, this ATV will service the International Space Station as a follow-up to the no. 1 ATV Jules Verne - which was orbited by Arianespace in March 2008. Satellite operator ARSAT selects Arianespace to launch Arsat-1 http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/06-28-2010-launch-contract-Arsat1.asp June 28, 2010 Arianespace has been chosen to orbit the first geostationary satellite built in Argentina, Arsat-1 for ARSAT (Empresa Argentina de Soluciones Satelitales Sociedad Anonima), following an international competitive bid. An Ariane 5 or Soyuz vehicle is scheduled to launch this spacecraft - which will weigh about 2,900 kg. at liftoff - from the Spaceport in French Guiana by mid-2012. Ariane 5 launch with Arabsat-5A and COMS: postponed http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/06-24-2010-V195-launch-postponed.asp June 24, 2010 Due to a launch vehicle pressurization anomaly on the main cryogenic stage during final countdown operations for Flight 195, Arianespace has decided to postpone the launch. The launch vehicle and its Arabsat-5A and COMS satellite payloads have been placed in stand-by mode and maintained in fully safe conditions. Ariane 5's flight with the Arabsat-5A and COMS satellite passengers is set for June 24 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/700.asp June 24, 2010 The Ariane 5 mission with Arabsat-5A and COMS has been rescheduled for this evening following additional verifications that were performed after a launcher subsystem anomaly stopped the final countdown yesterday. Liftoff is scheduled during a launch window that opens at 6:41 p.m. local time in French Guiana. Ariane 5 rolls out to the launch zone with its dual-satellite payload http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/697.asp June 22, 2010 The heavy-lift Ariane 5 is ready for its second mission of 2010 following today's rollout to the ELA-3 launch facility from the Final Assembly Building at Europe's Spaceport. This June 23 flight will orbit the Arabsat-5A and COMS spacecraft, with liftoff scheduled during a launch window that opens at 6:41 p.m. local time in French Guiana. Ariane 5 is authorized for its dual-payload flight http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/696.asp June 21, 2010 The green light has been given for Wednesday's Ariane 5 mission with the Arabsat-5A and COMS spacecraft following today's launch readiness review at the Spaceport. This go-ahead clears the way for Ariane 5's rollout from its Final Assembly Building to the ELA-3 launch zone, which will take place tomorrow. Liftoff of the Ariane 5 is planned during a launch window that opens at 6:41 p.m. local time on June 23 in French Guiana. Mission preparations move forward for Ariane 5 launches with telecom satellites and Europe's second ATV http://www.arianespace.com/ June 18, 2010 Ariane 5's ability to perform a full range of missions is underscored by preparation activity currently underway at the Spaceport in French Guiana. Initial assembly of the third Ariane 5 to be launched in 2010 has been completed at the Spaceport as its ESC-A upper stage and vehicle equipment bay are now installed atop the vehicle's cryogenic core stage. For the year's third mission of 2010, this latest Ariane 5 is to carry the RASCOM-QAF 1R and NILESAT 201 telecommunications payloads. Separately, Europe's next Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV) is being readied for pre-launch checkout at the Spaceport in preparation for its liftoff on an upcoming Ariane 5 mission. The Automated Transfer Vehicle, which is named after German astronomer and mathematician Johannes Kepler, will be the second such large spacecraft orbited by Arianespace for servicing of the International Space Station - following the Jules Verne ATV launched by an Ariane 5 in March 2008. Arianespace underscores contributions of German industry during Berlin Air Show http://www.arianespace.com/news-on-the-move/2010/06-11-ila-2010.asp June 11, 2010 At its traditional Berlin Air Show reception, Arianespace highlighted Germany's involvement in the Ariane launcher family's decades of success. According to Arianespace Chairman & CEO Jean-Yves Le Gall, the contributions of German industry - as well as its space agencies and institutions - have enabled Ariane to become the benchmark for the commercial space lift sector. Arianespace at CommunicAsia 2010 http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/06-15-2010-CommunicAsia2010.asp June 15, 2010 Arianespace is underscoring its 30 years of success with a key presence at CommunicAsia 2010 - Asia's international trade event for the global information and communications technologies sector - from June 15-18. Since its founding, Arianespace has signed more than 300 launch Service & Solutions contracts - including eight new contracts in 2010 - and has launched 279 satellites for 76 customers from 101 countries, accounting for more than half of all commercial satellites now in service. Arianespace to launch Vietnam's VINASAT-2 telecommunications satellite http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/06-15-2010-Vinasat2-contract.asp June 14, 2010 Arianespace has contracted with Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems to launch the VINASAT-2 satellite for Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group. An Ariane 5 or Soyuz vehicle is scheduled to orbit this spacecraft - which will weigh approximately 2,970 kg. at liftoff - from the Spaceport in French Guiana during the second quarter of 2012. Construction of the mobile gantry for Soyuz moves into its final phase http://www.arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2010/2010_06_14_mobile_gantry.asp June 14, 2010 The mobile gantry at Soyuz' new launch site in French Guiana is nearing completion as this structure's framework is now complete, and the metallic siding is being installed. The gantry is one of the major differences at the Spaceport's new home for Soyuz when compared to the workhorse vehicle's long-existing launch sites at Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan and Plesetsk Cosmodrome in northern Russia. Ariane 5's launch pace for 2010 is ramped up http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/694.asp June 11, 2010 Arianespace is maintaining its 2010 mission pace with three heavy-lift Ariane 5s now at the Spaceport in French Guiana. The company is targeting a total of six to seven missions with the workhorse vehicle this year, providing the payload lift capability to meet its growing order book. Arianespace at the ILA Berlin Air Show http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/06-08-2010-ILA-airshow2010.asp June 8, 2010 Arianespace is underscoring its 30 years of success with a key presence at the 2010 ILA Berlin Air Show. Since its founding, Arianespace has signed more than 300 launch Service & Solutions contracts - including eight new contracts in 2010 - and has launched 279 satellites for 76 customers from 101 countries, accounting for more than half of all commercial satellites now in service. Arianespace takes delivery of the Ariane 5 for its next mission http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/693.asp June 7, 2010 Ariane 5 is ready for integration of the Arabsat-5A and COMS satellites following the heavy-lift vehicle's handover to Arianespace yesterday. The two spacecraft will be orbited by Ariane 5 during its upcoming June 23 mission from the Spaceport in French Guiana. Arianespace at the International Union of Aviation Insurers' Annual General Meeting http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/06-07-2010-IUAI-annual-meeting.asp June 7, 2010 At this week's annual meeting of the International Union of Aerospace Insurers, Arianespace reaffirmed the commitment to a policy of total transparency in its relations with the insurance industry. Arianespace Chairman and CEO Jean-Yves Le Gall is the guest of honor at this event, which is being held from June 6-10 in Manchester, U.K. Looking ahead to lofting the James Webb Space Telescope http://www.arianespace.com/news-on-the-move/2010/06-01-science-festival.asp June 1, 2010 Arianespace's future role in launching the most powerful space telescope ever developed is being highlighted as part of World Science Festival in New York, where a full-scale mockup of the NASA James Webb Space Telescope is on display. An Ariane 5 will be used to orbit this massive space-based observatory, which is scheduled for liftoff from the Spaceport in 2014. Arianespace's launch services for Africa are in the spotlight http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/05-31-2010-africa-france-summit.asp May 31, 2010 At the 25th Africa-France Summit, Arianespace is underscoring its contribution to the development of satellite coverage in Africa over the past three decades. Arianespace has launched satellites for major international operators and participated in innovative projects by regional African operators. Arianespace sets the date for its next heavy-lift mission http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/05-27-2010-v195-launch-date.asp May 27, 2010 An Ariane 5 ECA will orbit the ARABSAT 5A and COMS spacecraft during a flight now scheduled for June 23. This second mission of 2010 will take place from the Spaceport in French Guiana, and follows the heavy-lift vehicle's May 21 success with ASTRA 3B and COMSATBw-2. Another on-target flight for the heavy-lift Ariane 5 http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/692.asp May 21, 2010 The 50th flight of an Ariane 5 successfully orbited the ASTRA 3B and COMSATBw-2 satellites from French Guiana on May 21. This Arianespace mission was the 194th launch of an Ariane family vehicle, and it will be followed by the next Ariane 5 flight in June with the ARABSAT-5A and COMS-1 payloads. Ariane 5 is ready for launch with ASTRA 3B and COMSATBw-2 http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/690.asp May 20, 2010 The Ariane 5 mission with ASTRA 3B and COMSATBw-2 is ready for launch tomorrow evening, May 21. Arianespace's heavy-lift vehicle rolled out at the Spaceport in French Guiana this morning, and moved to the launch zone for a scheduled liftoff at 7:01 p.m. local time tomorrow. ASTRA 3B is riding in the upper position of the launcher's payload "stack" and will be deployed at just under 28 minutes into the flight, with COMSATBw-2 located below it in the SYLDA 5 dispenser for a separation at 33 minutes after liftoff. Arianespace announces launch contract signing for Skynet 5D http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/05-19-2010-skynet.asp May 19, 2010 The heavy-lift Ariane 5 has been selected to orbit its fourth spacecraft in the Skynet 5 family: Skynet 5D. This military communications satellite will be placed into geostationary transfer orbit from Europe’s Spaceport during the first half of 2013. Skynet 5D is to be lofted by Arianespace for Astrium, which is contracted to deliver the satellite in orbit to Paradigm Secure Communications. Arianespace sets May 21 as the date for next Ariane 5 launch http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/05-18-2010-v194-launch-scheduled.asp May 18, 2010 The 50th Ariane 5 will be launched from Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana on the night of May 21, 2010, with a mixed civilian and military telecommunications satellite payload - SES ASTRA's ASTRA 3B and Germany's COMSATBw-2. Soyuz is readied for its next integration step at the Spaceport http://www.arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2010/2010_05_17_soyuz_consultation_committee_visit.asp May 17, 2010 The first Soyuz to be operated from the Spaceport is being readied to receive its Block I third stage, which follows the previous integration of this medium-lift vehicle's first and second stages. The third stage has been upgraded to significantly increase Soyuz' overall performance, navigation accuracy and control capability. Intelsat 17 to be launched by Ariane 5 later this year http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/05-15-2010-intelsat-17-launch.asp May 15, 2010 Arianespace has signed a contract with Intelsat, the leading provider of fixed satellite services, to launch Intelsat 17. An Ariane 5 ECA is scheduled to orbit this spacecraft - which will weigh nearly 5,800 at liftoff - from the Spaceport in French Guiana at the end of 2010. Inaugural Soyuz launch is set for later this year http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/05-11-2010-cc-soyuz-inaugural-launch.asp May 11, 2010 The first flight of Soyuz from French Guiana has been confirmed for the fourth quarter of 2010. This was announced today during a meeting of the Soyuz Consultation Committee - which comprises representatives of the Russian space agency Roscosmos, the European Space Agency (ESA), the French space agency CNES and Arianespace. The committee's meeting was called to review progress on the Spaceport's Soyuz launch pad, and to approve an overall timetable for assembly and testing in advance of the inaugural mission. Integration of Soyuz’ first/second stages is complete at the Spaceport http://www.arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2010/2010_05_10_integration_of_soyuz.asp May 10, 2010 The no. 1 Soyuz for launch from the Spaceport has marked a build-up milestone as its four first stage strap-on boosters are successfully mated with the Block A core second stage. This activity is part of regular maintenance checks for Soyuz vehicles in storage awaiting liftoff, and the procedure also is being used to qualify assembly processes in the Spaceport's new Launcher Integration Building. Arianespace maintains its emphasis on launch vehicle quality http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/688.asp April 12, 2010 The component that caused the postponement of Arianespace's next Ariane 5 flight - a pressure regulator for the launcher's main stage - has been sent to Europe for inspection by a task force. In parallel, a quality audit has been created to analyze the underlying reasons for the technical difficulty, and to propose corrective measures. Ariane 5 rolls out to the launch zone with its multi-satellite payload http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/685.asp April 8, 2010 Ariane 5 is ready for its next mission following today's rollout to the ELA-3 launch facility from the Final Assembly Building at Europe's Spaceport. This April 9 flight will orbit the ASTRA 3B and COMSATBw-2 satellites, with liftoff scheduled during a 49-min min. launch window that opens at 6:59 p.m., local time in French Guiana. Ariane 5's launch with ASTRA 3B and COMSATBw-2 is set for April 9 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/684.asp April 6, 2010 Liftoff of the first Ariane 5 in 2010 - which will carry the dual civilian and military satellite payload of ASTRA 3B and COMSATBw-2 - is planned for the evening of Friday, April 9 from Europe's Spaceport. The heavy-lift Ariane 5 will be transferred Thursday from the Final Assembly Building to the ELA-3 launch complex. The year-opening Ariane 5 mission is postponed http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/683.asp March 26, 2010 Arianespace's Ariane 5 mission with ASTRA 3B and COMSATBw-2 was delayed today after an anomaly occurred in a launcher subsystem during final countdown operations. A decision was made to replace this part, resulting in the launch postponement for several days. Arianespace's first Ariane 5 of 2010 is ready for launch http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/682.asp March 25, 2010 Another Ariane 5 is in the Spaceport's launch zone, clearing the way for tomorrow's flight (March 26) with the ASTRA 3B and COMSATBw-2 satellite payloads. This vehicle - the 50th Ariane 5 to be launched - was transferred from the Final Assembly Building to the ELA-3 launch complex during a process lasting 1 hr., 45 min. this morning. The mission will be the first of seven Ariane 5 flights planned in 2010, and is set for liftoff during a March 26 launch window that opens at 7:03 p.m. local time and continues to 7:52 p.m. (22h03-22h52 UTC). Ariane 5 is "go" for its March 26 liftoff http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/681.asp March 24, 2010 Today's launch readiness review (March 24) has cleared Arianespace's initial Ariane 5 mission of 2010 for a liftoff on Friday. Ariane 5 is now ready for its transfer from the Final Assembly Building to the ELA-3 launch complex tomorrow. The final countdown will then begin, leading to the liftoff during a launch window on March 26 that opens at 7:03 p.m. local time, and continues to 7:52 p.m. (22h03-22h52 UTC). This heavy-lift flight will orbit SES ASTRA's ASTRA 3B commercial telecommunications satellite and Germany's COMSATBw-2 secure military relay platform. Arianespace sets March 26 for its initial Ariane 5 mission of 2010 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/680.asp March 23, 2010 Liftoff of the first Ariane 5 in 2010 - which will carry the dual civilian and military satellite payload of ASTRA 3B and COMSATBw-2 - is planned for the evening of March 26 from Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana. This mission will be the 194th flight of an Ariane family launch vehicle, and the 50th for an Ariane 5. New momentum as Arianespace marks 30th anniversary http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/03-22-2010-board-of-directors-meeting.asp March 22, 2010 During a meeting held today in Evry, France, the Arianespace Board of Directors decided to provide resources needed for the company's further development as a launch services leader. Arianespace's order book now stands at 4.3 billion euros - an all-time record - and includes 33 satellites to be launched into geostationary orbit; six Ariane 5 missions with the Automated Transfer Vehicle (to service the International Space Station); and 17 Soyuz launches. Ariane 5's upcoming mission is postponed http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/679.asp March 18, 2010 The flight of Arianespace's initial Ariane 5 in 2010 has been postponed to allow for certain additional verifications on the launch vehicle. A new date for the mission will be announced as soon as possible. The “Satellite Executive of the Year” is honored at Satellite 2010 http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2010/03-17-10-satellite-executive-of-the-year.asp March 17, 2010 Arianespace's participation at Satellite 2010 included its sponsorship of an evening reception to honor the industry's executive of the year, as named by Via Satellite magazine. Arianespace Chairman & CEO Jean-Yves Le Gall, who was the 2005 Satellite Executive of the Year, introduced Shaper during remarks at the evening's reception. Jean-Yves Le Gall underscores ability of existing launch service providers to meet market needs http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2010/03-16-10-satellite-2010.asp March 16, 2010 The push by certain telecommunications operators for additional players in the space lift marketplace could work to the satellite industry's own detriment, generating an overcapacity situation and potentially creating launch services quality issues. This was the conclusion of several participants in a panel discussion on the launch sector's future, which was organized today as part of the Satellite 2010 conference of telecommunications executives, managers and service providers. Arianespace goes mobile with iPhone application and ringtone http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2010/03-16-2010-ringtone-and-iphone-app.asp March 16, 2010 Arianespace has expanded its strong online presence into the booming mobile phone sector, launching two new technologies that bring the company's missions into the palm of your hand: an official iPhone “app” and ringtone featuring an actual Ariane 5 countdown to liftoff. Parallel preparations continue for upcoming Ariane 5 flights http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/677.asp March 16, 2010 Launch activity is in full swing at French Guiana as preparations move forward for Ariane 5's first two missions in 2010. Payload processing for Arianespace's first heavy-lift launch campaign - which will orbit ASTRA 3B and COMSATBw-2 on March 24 - is continuing apace as the two passengers are prepared for their March 24 liftoff. In parallel, the satellites for Ariane 5's no. 2 mission have begun their checkout at the Spaceport. Satellite preparations for Arianespace's year-opening mission enter final phase http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/673.asp March 3, 2010 The ASTRA 3B satellite has begun its integration with launch hardware for Ariane 5's March 24 mission. During activity inside the Spaceport's S5 payload integration building, the spacecraft was installed atop a two-piece adapter unit that will serve as the satellite's interface with Ariane 5. Fueling process completed for ASTRA 3B http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/671.asp March 3, 2010 ASTRA 3B has been "topped off" in preparation for its launch during Ariane 5's first mission of the year, which is set for later this month. This activity was performed in the Spaceport's S5 satellite preparation facility. The ASTRA 3B satellite will be joined by Germany's COMSATBw-2 during Arianespace's year-opening flight. CONTRACT SIGNED FOR W3B'S LAUNCH BY ARIANE 5 http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2010/02-25-10-w3b-launch.asp February 25, 2010 Eutelsat's W3B telecommunications satellite is now on the fast track for launch in late 2010, reinforcing Arianespace's ability to accommodate customer mission timing needs. This spacecraft will provide Eutelsat with significant new capacity for broadcasting, telecommunications and broadband services. THE SECOND PASSENGER FOR ARIANE 5’S YEAR-OPENING FLIGHT IS IN FRENCH GUIANA http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/670.asp February 23, 2010 Germany's COMSATBw-2 has arrived in French Guiana, joining this secure relay platform with its "sister" payload, ASTRA 3B - which is undergoing pre-launch checkout at the Spaceport. This upcoming dual-payload mission - planned for March 24 - will kick off Arianespace's schedule of seven Ariane 5 missions in 2010. INITIAL CHECKOUT BEGINS FOR ASTRA 3B http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/669.asp February 22, 2010 Payload preparations are underway for Ariane 5's year-opening flight, with the first-arrived payload now undergoing initial checkout at Europe's Spaceport. This upcoming flight will orbit ASTRA 3B along with another satellite produced by EADS Astrium, COMSATBw-2 - initiating Arianespace's busy schedule of seven Ariane 5 missions in 2010. FRENCH-ITALIAN ATHENA-FIDUS SATELLITE TO BE LAUNCHED BY ARIANESPACE http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/02-11-10-athena-fidus-contract.asp February 11, 2010 Arianespace has been selected to orbit the Athena-Fidus satellite within the scope of a contract signed by Thales Alenia Space and Telespazio and the French and Italian space agencies, CNES and ASI. An Ariane 5 or Soyuz vehicle is scheduled to launch this spacecraft - which will weigh about 3,000 kg. - from the Spaceport in French Guiana during the second half of 2013. ASTRA 3B ARRIVES FOR ARIANESPACE’S MARCH 24 FLIGHT http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/668.asp February 11, 2010 The first of two payloads for Ariane 5's initial mission of 2010 has landed in French Guiana, arriving yesterday aboard an Antonov An-124 cargo jetliner. SES ASTRA's ASTRA 3B is a state-of-the-art Ku- and Ka-band spacecraft designed for the distribution of both direct-to-home (DTH) broadcast services and two-way broadband services across Europe. ARIANESPACE READIES FOR ANOTHER BUSY YEAR WITH ITS WORKHORSE ARIANE 5 http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2010/667.asp February 5, 2010 Launch campaign activity is in full swing at Europe's Spaceport, where Arianespace's year-opening March 24 mission has moved into its second phase of preparations. Meanwhile, the follow-on flight's launch vehicle has arrived in French Guiana after its trans-Atlantic voyage aboard the MN Toucan transport ship. SUPPORT CONTRACT IS SIGNED FOR VEGA'S FIRST LAUNCH CAMPAIGN http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/01-28-10-vega-esa-contract.asp January 28, 2010 Arianespace and the European Space Agency have signed a contract defining Arianespace's support services for the qualification campaign and combined testing of the lightweight Vega launcher. This testing will be conducted at Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana starting in April, in preparation for Vega's service entry toward the end of 2010. ARIANESPACE SELECTED TO LAUNCH FIRST 10 SATELLITES IN GALILEO CONSTELLATION http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2010/01-26-10-first-ten-foc-launch-contract.asp January 26, 2010 Arianespace has signed a launch contract for the first 10 Full Operational Capability satellites in Europe's planned Galileo satellite positioning system. The spacecraft will be launched in pairs starting in December 2012, using five Soyuz launchers operated from the Spaceport in French Guiana. ARIANESPACE COMMEMORATES THREE DECADES OF OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2009/12-24-09-30years.asp December 24, 2009 Arianespace's Ariane launcher marks the 30th anniversary of its maiden flight today, highlighting the heavy-lift vehicle's reliability, flexibility and payload delivery accuracy for customers around the globe. Since Ariane 1's historic inaugural liftoff in 1979, a total of 193 Ariane missions have been performed, launching 277 payloads. ARIANESPACE WRAPS UP ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL YEAR OF OPERATIONS http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/666.asp December 18, 2009 Ariane 5 delivered the French Helios 2B military observation satellite into Sun-synchronous polar orbit this afternoon on Arianespace's seventh mission of 2009. Today's flight from Europe's Spaceport marked the 35th consecutive success for Ariane 5 during seven years of operation, reinforcing its role as the heavy-lift vehicle of reference for the world's commercial launch services sector. FLIGHT 193 - HELIOS 2B: LAUNCH DELAYED http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2009/12-17-09-launch-delay.asp December 17, 2009 An anomaly occurred during final chronology for Flight 193-HELIOS 2B, thus halting the count-down. Since the launch was to occur within a precise instant, a new attempt was not possible today. The launch vehicle and its HELIOS 2B satellite payload are in stand-by mode and maintained in fully safe conditions. A new date for the mission will be announced as soon as possible. FINAL ARIANE 5 FOR 2009 RETURNS TO THE LAUNCH PAD http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/662.asp December 16, 2009 Ariane 5 has been transferred to the ELA-3 launch zone with its Helios 2B satellite payload, starting the final countdown to a mid-day liftoff tomorrow. Arianespace's seventh mission of 2009 will deploy this 4,200-kg. French spacecraft into a Sun-synchronous polar orbit. NEW LAUNCH DATE SET FOR ARIANE 5'S FINAL MISSION OF THE YEAR http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/661.asp December 14, 2009 Arianespace's year-end mission with Helios 2B is now set for December 17 from the Spaceport in French Guiana. The French military observation satellite is riding as a solo payload on this upcoming flight, which is the seventh of 2009 for the workhorse Ariane 5 launcher. ARIANE 5 ROLLS OUT TO THE LAUNCH ZONE WITH HELIOS 2B http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/659.asp December 8, 2009 Ariane 5 is ready for its seventh flight of 2009 following today's rollout to the ELA-3 launch facility from the Final Assembly Building at Europe's Spaceport. Liftoff of the Ariane 5 GS is set for 1:26 p.m., with the French Helios 2B being injected into a Sun-synchronous polar orbit during a mission lasting 59 min., 23 sec. ARIANE 5 IS AUTHORIZED FOR LAUNCH WITH HELIOS 2B http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/658.asp December 7, 2009 The green light has been given for Ariane 5's year-ending flight with the French Helios 2B military observation satellite. This go-ahead followed today's successful launch readiness review - which validated the status of Ariane 5 and its payload, the launch infrastructure at Europe's Spaceport, and the network of downrange tracking stations. Liftoff of this Ariane 5 GS is set for 1:26 p.m. on December 9, with Helios 2B being injected into a Sun-synchronous polar orbit during a mission lasting 59 min., 23 sec. ARIANESPACE MARKS 30th ANNIVERSARY OF ARIANE'S FIRST FLIGHT http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2009/12-03-09-30th-anniversary.asp December 3, 2009 Thirty years of launch services excellence with the Ariane launcher family was celebrated by Arianespace in Washington, D.C. Chairman & CEO Jean-Yves Le Gall recalled the maiden flight of Ariane 1 on Christmas Eve 1979, and underscored the importance of launch services maturity and continuity in today's competitive marketplace. ARIANESPACE'S LAST ARIANE 5 FLIGHT OF 2009 ENTERS FINAL PREPARATIONS FOR LIFTOFF http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/657.asp December 2, 2009 Ariane 5 is being readied for its year-end launch with France's Helios 2B military observation satellite. This seventh mission of 2009 is set for 1:26 p.m. on December 9 from the Spaceport in French Guiana, with its payload to be injected into a Sun-synchronous polar orbit during a mission lasting 59 min., 23 sec. THE FIRST DELIVERY OF SOYUZ LAUNCHERS TO FRENCH GUIANA IS COMPLETED http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2009/11-25-2009-soyuz-arrival.asp November 25, 2009 All elements of the initial two Soyuz vehicles shipped to the Spaceport have now been brought ashore and are on French Guiana soil. This completes a three-day unloading process from the MN Colibri transport ship, with the last of some 50 containers now being moved in road convoys from the dock near Kourou to the Spaceport. The MN Colibri arrived in French Guiana on November 23, completing a transatlantic crossing from St. Petersburg, Russia that began on November 7. ARIANESPACE'S FIRST SOYUZ LAUNCHERS ARE DELIVERED TO FRENCH GUIANA http://www.arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2009/2009_11_24.asp November 24, 2009 The first two Soyuz to be operated by Arianespace have arrived in French Guiana, making a new milestone for the introduction of this venerable launcher from the Spaceport. The Soyuz vehicles were transported by the MN Colibri roll-on/roll-off transport ship, which docked on schedule yesterday morning at Pariacabo port near Kourou after completing the transatlantic voyage from Russia. ARIANESPACE RECEIVES THE SEVENTH ARIANE 5 FOR LAUNCH IN 2009 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/656.asp November 16, 2009 The Ariane 5 GS version for Arianespace's upcoming flight is now in the Spaceport's Final Assembly Building following delivery by prime contractor EADS Astrium Space Transportation. This launcher will orbit the Helios 2B French military reconnaissance satellite in a mission scheduled for December 9. SOYUZ' MOBILE LAUNCH GANTRY TAKES SHAPE AT THE SPACEPORT http://www.arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2009/2009_11_12_soyuz_launchsite_update.asp November 12, 2009 Preparations for the introduction of Arianespace's Soyuz missions from French Guiana have entered a new phase with assembly startup for the launcher's mobile service gantry at the Spaceport. The 52-meter-tall gantry will be one of the main differences from Soyuz' other launch sites at Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan and Plesetsk Cosmodrome in Russia. SOYUZ IS HEADED TO FRENCH GUIANA http://www.arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2009/2009_11_07.asp November 7, 2009 In an historic step for Arianespace's expansion of its launcher family, the initial two Soyuz vehicles have been loaded aboard a roll-on/roll-off ship at St. Petersburg, Russia for their transatlantic voyage to the Spaceport in French Guiana. These launchers will be the first operated from the Spaceport, with Arianespace's new Soyuz service to be inaugurated in 2010. FIRST TWO SOYUZ LAUNCHERS ARE READIED FOR SHIPMENT TO THE SPACEPORT http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2009/11-5-2009.asp November 5, 2009 Loading has begun for Arianespace's initial two Soyuz launchers to be operated from the Spaceport, which are to make their transatlantic voyage from St. Petersburg to French Guiana beginning this weekend. These Russian-built vehicles will be carried aboard the MN Colibri transport ship, which is to cover the 5,119-nautical mile Atlantic Ocean crossing in 15 days. ARIANESPACE MAINTAINS ROBUST 2009 MISSION PACE WITH ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL ARIANE 5 LAUNCH http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/655.asp October 29, 2009 Arianespace completed its sixth mission of 2009 from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana today, keeping up the busiest calendar year of launch activity for Ariane 5 since its commercial introduction in 1999. The flight orbited a new customer’s satellite, THOR 6 for Telenor Satellite Broadcasting AS, along with SES WORLD SKIES’ NSS-12 – which is the 32nd spacecraft from the SES group of companies that has been entrusted for an Ariane launch. ARIANE 5 CLEARS INITIAL BUILD-UP PHASE FOR FINAL FLIGHT OF 2009 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/654.asp October 28, 2009 Basic assembly has been completed for the Ariane 5 to be launched during Arianespace’s seventh and final flight of 2009. This activity clears the way for final integration and check-out steps in advance of the heavy-lift vehicle’s transfer to the Final Assembly Building at Europe’s Spaceport. ARIANE 5 ROLLS OUT TO THE LAUNCH ZONE WITH ITS MULTI-SATELLITE PAYLOAD http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/653.asp October 28, 2009 Ariane 5 is ready for its sixth mission of 2009 following today’s rollout to the ELA-3 launch facility from the Final Assembly Building at Europe’s Spaceport. This October 29 flight will orbit SES WORLD SKIES’ NSS-12 and THOR 6 for Telenor Satellite Broadcasting AS, with liftoff scheduled during a 1 hr., 40 min. launch window that opens at 5:00 p.m., local time in French Guiana. ARIANE 5 IS AUTHORIZED FOR ITS DUAL-PASSENGER LAUNCH http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/652.asp October 27, 2009 Arianespace's sixth heavy-lift Ariane 5 mission of 2009 has been cleared for its October 29 liftoff from the Spaceport in French Guiana. The go-ahead was given following today's launch readiness review - which validated the status of Ariane 5, the NSS-12 and THOR 6 satellite payloads, the launch infrastructure at Europe's Spaceport and the network of downrange tracking stations. ARIANE 5 IS COMPLETE FOR ARIANESPACE’S SIXTH FLIGHT OF 2009 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/650.asp October 22, 2009 Now fitted with its dual payload 'stack' of NSS-12 and THOR 6, Ariane 5 is ready for a final series of preparation milestones in advance of its October 29 liftoff. Final integration activity took place at the Spaceport in French Guiana – to be followed by the launch readiness review on October 27 and Ariane 5’s subsequent rollout to the ELA-3 launch zone the next day. ARIANESPACE’S SIXTH ARIANE 5 FOR LAUNCH IN 2009 RECEIVES ITS FIRST OF TWO SATELLITE PAYLOADS http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/649.asp October 20, 2009 The THOR 6 spacecraft for Telenor Satellite Broadcasting has been installed as the lower payload on Ariane 5, moving preparations for Arianespace's sixth mission of 2009 into their final phase. This launch is scheduled for an October 29 evening liftoff from the Spaceport in French Guiana, and also will carry SES WORLD SKIES' NSS-12 telecommunications relay platform on another of Ariane 5's trademark dual-payload flights. INTEGRATION BEGINS FOR THE SEVENTH ARIANE 5 TO BE LAUNCHED IN 2009 http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/648.asp October 15, 2009 The seventh and final Ariane 5 for launch in 2009 has begun its assembly process in French Guiana, maintaining the pace for Arianespace's busiest year of flight activity since the workhorse launcher's December 1999 commercial introduction. This latest vehicle is taking shape inside the Launcher Integration Building at Europe's Spaceport, and it will be built up on one of two mobile launch tables operational for Ariane 5. NEXT ARIANE 5 MISSION MOVES INTO FINAL PREPARATION PHASE http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/647.asp October 12, 2009 Arianespace has taken delivery of the sixth Ariane 5 for launch in 2009, keeping the company on track for a record year of launch activity with the heavy-lift workhorse. The vehicle's dual payload - SES WORLD SKIES' NSS-12 spacecraft and THOR 6 for Telenor Satellite Broadcasting - will now be installed under Arianespace responsibility in the Spaceport's Final Assembly Building. ARIANESPACE MARKS THE 33rd CONSECUTIVE MISSION SUCCESS FOR ARIANE 5 http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/646.asp October 1, 2009 Ariane 5 successfully lofted the civilian Amazonas 2 satellite and the COMSATBw-1 military telecommunications platform from the Spaceport in French Guiana today. This latest launch maintains Arianespace's robust mission pace, with a total of seven flights planned during 2009 - the busiest year of launch activity for Ariane 5 since its commercial introduction in 1999. MAINTAINING THE LAUNCH RATE FOR ARIANE 5: TWO MISSIONS IN FULL SWING http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/644.asp September 30, 2009 Arianespace is continuing its sustained launch pace - with the next mission ready for an October 1 liftoff, and payloads for the following flight now undergoing final checkout at the Spaceport. The October 1 liftoff will be Ariane 5's fifth mission of 2009, carrying the civilian Amazonas 2 satellite for Spain's HISPASAT, along with the German COMSATBw-1 military telecommunications platform. The next flight will orbit SES WORLD SKIES' NSS-12 and THOR 6 for Telenor Satellite Broadcasting. INTEGRATION IS COMPLETE FOR ARIANESPACE'S FIFTH ARIANE 5 TO BE LAUNCHED IN 2009 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/640.asp September 25, 2009 The Amazonas 2 and COMSATBw-1 satellites have been installed atop their heavy-lift Ariane 5, which is now undergoing a final series of checks in preparation for liftoff on September 30 from the Spaceport in French Guiana. Amazonas 2 will be operated by Spain's HISPASAT with a coverage area extending from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego. COMSATBw-1 is a German military satellite that will play an important role in the German Bundeswehr's (German Armed Forces) concept for network-centric operations. COMPONENTS FOR SEVENTH ARIANE 5 OF 2009 ARRIVE AT THE SPACEPORT http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/639.asp September 23, 2009 Arianespace is maintaining its robust mission pace with delivery of the latest Ariane 5, which will embark on a record seventh flight of 2009 later this year. Arriving in French Guiana from Europe via the MN Toucan, it was transferred by road to the Spaceport - where it is now ready to begin initial build-up in the Launcher Integration Building. FINAL PAYLOAD INTEGRATION IS UNDERWAY FOR ARIANESPACE'S FIFTH MISSION OF 2009 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/638.asp September 21, 2009 The Amazonas 2 satellite has been encapsulated inside Ariane 5's ogive-shaped payload fairing in preparation for the heavy-lift vehicle's launch later this month. This spacecraft - which will provide the Spanish-based HISPASAT telecommunications operator with relay capacity over the Americas - will ride on the dual-payload flight with the German military satellite COMSATBw-1. NEW MILESTONES FOR ARIANESPACE'S PARALLEL LAUNCH CAMPAIGNS http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/637.asp September 17, 2009 The next two Ariane 5 missions are being readied for their upcoming launches, as the Amazonas 2 payload for Arianespace's fifth flight of 2009 began final integration, and the sixth launcher completed its basic build-up during activity at the Spaceport in French Guiana. COMSATBw-1 BEGINS PRE-LAUNCH CHECKOUT AT THE SPACEPORT http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/636.asp September 15, 2009 Pre-launch processing is underway for the COMSATBw-1 military relay satellite, as preparations for Arianespace's fifth Ariane 5 flight of 2009 continue at Europe's Spaceport. In parallel activity, this upcoming mission's second passenger - Amazonas 2 - has been topped off with its propellant load in the S5B fueling and integration hall. BUILD-UP BEGINS FOR THE SIXTH ARIANE 5 TO BE LAUNCHED THIS YEAR http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/635.asp September 9, 2009 Parallel Ariane 5 launch campaigns are once again underway at the Spaceport in French Guiana as Arianespace prepares for the fifth and sixth flights of its heavy-lift launcher during 2009. In the latest activity, the no. 6 vehicle has begun taking shape in the Launcher Integration Building, while the for Arianespace's fifth Ariane 5 of 2009 is in the Final Assembly Building awaiting the installation of its COMSATBw-1 and Amazonas 2 satellite passengers for a liftoff scheduled at the end of this month. ARIANESPACE AT THE WORLD SATELLITE BUSINESS WEEK http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2009/09-08-2009-world-satellite-business-week.asp September 8, 2009 During a panel session at the 2009 World Satellite Business Week conference in Paris, Chairman & CEO Jean-Yves Le Gall underscores Arianespace's continued commitment to launch services quality and reliability. While other launch service providers have suffered recent setbacks, Le Gall describes how Arianespace remains on track for the busiest calendar year of heavy-lift launches with Ariane 5, maintains a record order book backlog and continues to prepare for the introduction of its medium-lift Soyuz and lightweight Vega from French Guiana. GERMAN MILITARY COMMUNICATIONS SATELLITE IS READIED FOR ITS ARIANE 5 LAUNCH http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/634.asp September 4, 2009 Germany's COMSATBw-1 military communications satellite has arrived in French Guiana to begin its pre-launch processing in preparation for Ariane 5's late September mission. This secure relay platform will play an important role in the German Bundeswehr's (German armed forces) concept for network-centric operations. AMAZONAS 2 BEGINS PRE-LAUNCH PROCESSING FOR ARIANESPACE'S ARIANE 5 MISSION LATER THIS MONTH http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/633.asp September 2, 2009 The Amazonas 2 satellite for Ariane 5's upcoming mission has begun initial checkout at the Spaceport in French Guiana. This commercial telecommunications satellite will be joined by the German COMSATBw-1 military telecommunications satellite on Arianespace's fifth heavy-lift launch of 2009, which is planned for the end of September. ARIANESPACE TAKES DELIVERY OF THE FIFTH ARIANE 5 IN 2009 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/632.asp September 1, 2009 A new milestone has been reached for the fifth Ariane 5 mission of 2009, as Arianespace receives the launch vehicle for this upcoming flight with the Amazonas 2 and GMS satellites. Delivery was marked by Ariane 5's transfer from the Spaceport's Launcher Integration Building - where its initial build-up was performed by industrial prime contractor EADS Astrium - to the Final Assembly Building, where Arianespace will oversee payload integration. FIRST PAYLOAD FOR ARIANESPACE'S FIFTH ARIANE 5 MISSION OF 2009 IS DELIVERED http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/631.asp August 28, 2009 HISPASAT's Amazonas 2 telecommunications relay satellite has arrived in French Guiana aboard an Antonov An-124 jetliner, which landed at Cayenne's Rochambeau International Airport this morning. The EADS Astrium-built spacecraft will now begin final preparations for liftoff in late September on a dual-payload Ariane 5 mission. A 32nd CONSECUTIVE MISSION SUCCESS FOR ARIANESPACE’S ARIANE 5 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/628.asp August 21, 2009 Ariane 5 successfully lofted the JCSAT-12 and Optus D3 telecommunications satellites from the Spaceport in French Guiana tonight. Lifting off from the ELA-3 launch zone, the Ariane 5 deployed its payloads - both U.S.-built spacecraft for Asia-Pacific customers - during a 34-minute flight sequence. ARIANESPACE BEGINS FINAL COUNTDOWN FOR FOURTH ARIANE 5 FLIGHT OF 2009 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/626.asp August 21, 2009 The final countdown for Ariane 5's mission with the JCSAT-12 and Optus D3 telecommunications satellites is underway at Europe's Spaceport. Liftoff of this heavy-lift vehicle is scheduled for tonight, at the start of a one-hour launch window that opens at 7:09 p.m. in French Guiana. KEEPING UP THE MISSION PACE: THREE ARIANE 5 LAUNCHERS PROCESSED AT THE SPACEPORT http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/625.asp August 20, 2009 Arianespace's 2009 mission rate is being continuing apace as three Ariane 5 vehicles are now in the workflow for launches from French Guiana. One Ariane 5 rolled out today for liftoff with the JCSAT-12 and Optus D3 telecom satellites tomorrow night, while another launcher is ready for its move into the Spaceport's Final Assembly Building. The third Ariane 5 arrived this week in French Guiana aboard a sea-going transport ship and will soon begin its build-up. ARIANESPACE'S AUGUST 21 FLIGHT IS AUTHORIZED FOR LIFTOFF http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/624.asp August 19, 2009 The green light has been given for Ariane 5's upcoming mission with JCSAT-12 and Optus D3 following today's launch readiness review at the Spaceport in French Guiana. This go-ahead clears the way for the rollout of Ariane 5 tomorrow from its Final Assembly Building to the ELA-3 launch zone. ARIANESPACE COMPLETES PAYLOAD INTEGRATION FOR NEXT MISSION http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/623.asp August 17, 2009 Now fitted with its dual payload "stack," Ariane 5 is undergoing a final checkout in preparation for the heavy-lift vehicle's August 21 liftoff from Europe's Spaceport. Arianespace will loft the JCSAT-12 and Optus D3 telecommunications satellites for two of its key Asia-Pacific customers on this fourth launch of 2009. FIRST OF TWO PAYLOADS INTEGRATED FOR ARIANESPACE'S NEXT HEAVY-LIFT MISSION http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/622.asp August 13, 2009 Installation of the Optus D3 telecommunications satellite on Ariane 5's core stage was completed inside the Final Assembly Building at Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana, marking the initial step of final integration for the August 21 flight's dual-passenger payload "stack." JCSAT-12 AND OPTUS D3 SPACECRAFT ARE ONE STEP CLOSER TO LIFTOFF http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/621.asp August 12, 2009 Integration of both satellite payloads continues for Arianespace's fourth heavy-lift mission of 2009, set for a nighttime launch from Europe's Spaceport on August 21. The flight's lower passenger, Optus D3, has been installed atop its adapter unit, while Ariane 5's payload fairing is now in place over the JCSAT-12 satellite and the SYLDA dispenser system. PAYLOAD "STACK" BUILD-UP IS UNDERWAY FOR NEXT ARIANE 5 MISSION http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/620.asp August 11, 2009 Spacecraft integration activity for Arianespace's August 21 launch began yesterday with JCSAT-12's installation atop the Ariane 5 SYLDA dual-payload dispenser system. This telecommunications satellite will ride as the flight's upper passenger and is to be deployed first in the mission sequence, followed by the Optus D3 spacecraft. JCSAT-12 IS FUELED FOR ARIANESPACE'S FOURTH FLIGHT OF 2009 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/619.asp August 7, 2009 Ariane 5's JCSAT-12 passenger has been loaded with its propellant as part of final preparations for Arianespace's next heavy-lift mission, which is set for later this month. This satellite is one of a pair of U.S.-built spacecraft to be carried on the dual-payload flight, both to be operated by Asia-Pacific operators. OPTUS D3 IS FUELED FOR ARIANESPACE'S UPCOMING DUAL-PASSENGER ARIANE 5 LAUNCH http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/618.asp August 6, 2009 The final phase of payload preparations has begun for Arianespace's next heavy-lift Ariane 5 mission, which is set for later this month with the Optus D3 and JCSAT-12 satellite passengers. This activity includes Optus D3's propellant loading, which occurred in the S5A fueling and integration hall of the Spaceport's S5 satellite preparation facility. ARIANESPACE CHAIRMAN & CEO DETAILS POTENTIAL ROLE FOR ARIANE 5 IN U.S. SPACE EXPLORATION http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2009/08-05-2009-legall-nasa-presentation.asp August 5, 2009 Jean-Yves Le Gall tells members of the Review of U.S. Human Space Flight Plans Committee that Arianespace's world-leading large capacity launch vehicle is available to support the future of U.S. space exploration - including cargo resupply flights for the International Space Station, along with missions to the Moon and Mars. Le Gall was in Washington, D.C. to address the committee, which was created to evaluate the United States' future human spaceflight operations. ARIANE 5 CLEARS INITIAL BUILD-UP PHASE FOR FIFTH FLIGHT OF 2009 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/617.asp August 3, 2009 Initial assembly is complete for the fifth Ariane 5 to be launched this year, as preparations continue for another of Arianespace's trademark dual-satellite payload missions. This heavy-lift Ariane 5 was fitted with its ESC-A upper stage and vehicle equipment bay - which were installed as a single unit - inside the Launcher Integration Building at Europe's Spaceport. ARIANESPACE'S FIFTH ARIANE 5 OF 2009 TAKES SHAPE http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/615.asp July 24, 2009 Build-up has begun for the fifth Ariane 5 to be launched this year – starting with the core cryogenic stage's erection and the mating of its initial solid propellant booster. This activity – which is taking place in the Spaceport's Launcher Assembly Building – is in parallel with preparations for Arianespace's August mission with the no. 4 heavy-lift vehicle, which is currently in the Final Assembly Building. OPTUS D3 BEGINS PRE-LAUNCH CHECKOUT FOR MID-AUGUST MISSION http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/615.asp July 23, 2009 Pre-launch processing is underway for the Optus D3 satellite, as preparations for Arianespace's fourth heavy-lift Ariane 5 mission of 2009 continue a Europe's Spaceport. This dual-payload flight will carry a pair of U.S.-built spacecraft to be operated by two Asia-Pacific operators. PREPARATIONS ADVANCE AT SOYUZ LAUNCH SITE http://www.arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2009/2009_07_23_soyuz_launchsite_update.asp July 23, 2009 The validation of two new ground infrastructure elements - the multi-mode tractor, and the rail-based kerosene propellant delivery system - are part of the latest activity at the Soyuz launch facility. Arianespace is readying the site at Europe's Spaceport for the introduction of this legendary medium-lift vehicle to its family of launchers in 2010. ARIANESPACE CHOSEN TO LAUNCH HYLAS TELECOMMUNICATIONS SATELLITE http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2009/07-22-09-Hylas-contract.asp July 22, 2009 Arianespace's 11th Service & Solutions contract of 2009 was signed to loft HYLAS, the first satellite entrusted to Arianespace by new European operator Avanti Communications. An Ariane 5 or Soyuz launcher is scheduled to launch this 2,750-kg spacecraft - which will be Europe's first superfast broadband satellite, serving customers all over the continent - from the Spaceport in French Guiana during the first part of 2010. SECOND PAYLOAD FOR MID-AUGUST ARIANE 5 MISSION ARRIVES IN FRENCH GUIANA http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/614.asp July 21, 2009 Optus D3 was delivered today to French Guiana's Rochambeau International Airport by a chartered cargo jetliner, which carried this Orbital Sciences Corporation-built spacecraft from its manufacturing facility in the United States. It will be launched with satellite co-passenger JCSAT-12 aboard a heavy-lift Ariane 5 next month during Arianespace's fourth mission of 2009. PREPARATIONS MOVE FORWARD FOR ARIANE 5'S FOURTH MISSION OF 2009 http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/613.asp July 20, 2009 Activities in advance of Arianespace's mid-August liftoff continue as the heavy-lift Ariane 5 ECA is delivered by prime contractor EADS Astrium to the Final Assembly Building at Europe's Spaceport. In addition, the JCSAT-12 satellite - one of the launcher's two passengers for the mission - has entered pre-launch checkout in the Spaceport's S5 payload preparation facility. ARIANESPACE MARKS 31ST CONSECUTIVE MISSION SUCCESS FOR ARIANE 5 http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/610.asp July 1, 2009 Ariane 5 successfully lofted the world's largest commercial satellite, TerreStar-1, from the Spaceport in French Guiana today - marking another record-setting flight for this workhorse Arianespace vehicle. Lifting off from the ELA-3 launch zone, the Ariane 5 deployed TerreStar-1 into geostationary transfer orbit 26 minutes later. ARIANE 5 TRANSFERRED TO LAUNCH ZONE IN PREPARATION FOR TOMORROW'S LIFTOFF http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/606.asp June 29, 2009 Fully integrated with its TerreStar-1 payload, Ariane 5 is ready for liftoff from Europe's Spaceport following its rollout to the ELA-3 launch facility from the Final Assembly Building this morning. Arianespace's mission will be the company's third flight of the heavy-lift vehicle in 2009, with a total of seven launches planned during the year. ARIANE 5 IS AUTHORIZED FOR LAUNCH WITH TERRESTAR-1 http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/605.asp June 29, 2009 Arianespace's third heavy-lift Ariane 5 mission of 2009 has been cleared for its July 1 liftoff from the Spaceport in French Guiana. The go-ahead was given following today's launch readiness review - which validated the status of Ariane 5, its TerreStar-1 payload, the launch infrastructure at Europe's Spaceport, and the network of downrange tracking stations. ARIANE 5 NOW COMPLETE FOR ARIANESPACE'S UPCOMING MISSION http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/604.asp June 25, 2009 With the installation of Ariane 5's payload fairing over the TerreStar-1 payload, integration of the heavy-lift launcher is now complete for its July 1 mission from Europe's Spaceport. Launch teams have since been validating the vehicle's final configuration in preparation for its launch pad rollout on June 30. VEGA LAUNCH SITE COMPLETES INITIAL PREPARATION PHASE http://www.arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2009/2009_06_25_vega_launchsite_update.asp June 25, 2009 The Spaceport's ELA-1 facility - where Arianespace's lightweight Vega will be operated - is now ready for integration and qualification tests. These activities are scheduled to begin this summer at the refurbished site, which was previously used between 1979 and 1989 for missions with the Ariane 1 and 3 launcher versions. TERRESTAR-1 SPACECRAFT TAKES ONE STEP CLOSER TO LIFTOFF http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/603.asp June 22, 2009 Ariane 5 has received its TerreStar-1 payload in preparation for the heavy-lift launcher's July 1 mission from Europe's Spaceport. The Space Systems/Loral-built satellite will provide coverage over the U.S. and Canada - offering voice, data and video communications to satellite/terrestrial mobile devices the size of a typical smart phone. ASSEMBLY MILESTONE FOR FOURTH ARIANE 5 OF 2009 http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/601.asp June 22, 2009 The fourth Ariane 5 for launch by Arianespace in 2009 has completed its initial build-up inside the Spaceport's Launcher Integration Building. Industrial prime contractor EADS Astrium topped off the vehicle with Ariane 5's upper composite - which consists of the ESC-A cryogenic upper stage and equipment bay. TERRESTAR-1 READIES FOR JULY 1 MISSION ABOARD ARIANE 5 http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/601.asp June 22, 2009 TerreStar-1 has been mated to the cone-shaped adapter unit that will serve as the interface with its Ariane 5 ECA in preparation for Arianespace's third mission of the year. The next step for this payload - the world's largest civilian telecommunications satellite - is its transfer to the Ariane 5 Final Assembly Building at Europe's Spaceport. TERRESTAR-1 SATELLITE IS FUELED FOR ARIANESPACE’S JULY 1 HEAVY-LIFT MISSION http://arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/600.asp June 19, 2009 Ariane 5's TerreStar-1 passenger has been loaded with its propellant in the S5A fueling and integration hall at Europe's Spaceport. This Space Systems/Loral-built spacecraft - which is to be the largest commercial telecommunications satellite ever launched - will provide critical services for government, emergency responders, rural communities and commercial users. LAUNCH SITE READIES FOR INTRODUCTION OF VEGA http://arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2009/06-19-2009-The_Spaceports_ELA-1_launch_site.asp June 19, 2009 Initial preparations have been completed at the Spaceport's ELA-1 launch site, which has been refurbished and updated for missions with the new lightweight Vega. This activity includes upgrading and resurfacing the concrete launch pad, installing a new purpose-built mobile gantry, refurbishing the support infrastructure and connecting the site's various supply lines. ARIANESPACE ON TRACK FOR ANOTHER RECORD YEAR http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2009/06-15-2009-3.asp June 16, 2009 Speaking to international reporters at the company's Paris Air Show press conference, Chairman and CEO Jean-Yves Le Gall highlighted Ariane 5's sustained mission pace in 2009, as well as continued preparations to introduce Soyuz and Vega at Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana. Demonstrating Arianespace's strong market position, two upcoming Ariane 5 missions to launch telecommunications satellites also were announced at the biennial event - ST-2 for Singapore and Taiwan in 2011 and ABS-2 for Hong Kong operator Asia Broadcast Satellite in 2012. ARIANESPACE CHOSEN TO LAUNCH FIRST GALILEO SATELLITES http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2009/06-15-2009-3.asp June 15, 2009 Arianespace has signed a contract with the European Space Agency (ESA) at the 2009 Paris Air Show to launch the first operational Galileo navigation satellites. Two Soyuz medium-lift vehicles are scheduled to loft the four spacecraft in pairs from Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana beginning in the second half of 2010. On a busy first day at the biennial air show event, Arianespace also entered into contracts with RUAG Aerospace for a series of payload adapters; and with Oerlikon Space AG for payload fairings - all to be used on the 35 Ariane 5 launchers for the upcoming PB batch ordered by Arianespace. The company signed a framework contract as well with ESA concerning the procurement of launch services for future ESA missions. ARIANESPACE AT THE 2009 PARIS AIR SHOW http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/599.asp June 12, 2009 Arianespace will have a high-profile presence at this year's Paris Air Show on June 15-21, with a special focus on the company's growing family of launch vehicles. As part of its participation at the biennial event, Arianespace Chairman & CEO Jean-Yves Le Gall will hold a press conference with members of the international news media. BUILD-UP PROCESS BEGINS FOR THE FOURTH ARIANE 5 OF 2009 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/599.asp June 12, 2009 A new Ariane 5 began taking shape in the Spaceport's Launcher Integration Building this week with the erection of its cryogenic core stage, which was then moved into position over one of two operational mobile launch tables for the heavy-lift vehicle. In parallel, another Ariane 5 ECA is in the Final Assembly Building, where it is awaiting the integration of its TerreStar-1 payload. This spacecraft - which will be operated by TerreStar Networks Inc. - is to be the largest commercial telecommunications satellite ever launched. THE HEAVY-LIFT ARIANE 5 IS READIED FOR ITS TERRESTAR-1 PAYLOAD http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/598.asp June 3, 2009 Arianespace has received the heavy-lift Ariane 5 for its upcoming mission with the world's largest commercial telecommunications satellite to be launched - TerreStar-1. This vehicle was delivered to the Final Assembly Building today, where preparations will begin for the late June liftoff on Arianespace's third flight of 2009 HERSCHEL PROVIDES VIEW OF SYLDA 5 DEPLOYMENT ON MAY 14 MISSION http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2009/05-26-2009-herschel-planck-sylda-deployment.asp May 26, 2009 Herschel's Visual Monitoring Camera captured a unique series of in-flight photos of the SYLDA 5 payload dispenser's jettison during Ariane 5's latest mission success. The images - which are part of an animated sequence created by the European Space Agency - were taken at an altitude of more than 1,000 km. above Africa. ARIANESPACE CHOSEN TO LAUNCH THE ALPHASAT I-XL COMMUNICATIONS SATELLITE http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2009/05-20-09-Alphasat-launch-contract.asp May 20, 2009 Arianespace's eighth Service & Solutions contract of 2009 was signed to loft the new Alphasat I-XL communications satellite, to be used by British operator Inmarsat. Ariane 5 is scheduled to launch the satellite - which will provide advanced mobile voice and data communications services across Europe, Africa and the Middle East - from Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana in 2012. This contract follows a partnership agreement between Inmarsat and the European Space Agency (ESA) concerning the commercialization of the first mission to use the new European platform, Alphabus. DIRECTOR GENERAL OF THE EUROPEAN SPACE AGENCY VISITS FRENCH GUIANA http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2009/05-19-2009-dordain-visit-spaceport.asp May 19, 2009 On a visit to French Guiana last week to witness the successful launch of his agency's Herschel and Planck spacecraft, European Space Agency Director General Jean-Jacques Dordain was updated on preparations for the upcoming introduction of the medium-lift Soyuz and lightweight Vega at the Spaceport. Dordain also toured the new launch facilities for both vehicles, accompanied by Arianespace Chairman & CEO Jean-Yves Le Gall. PRE-LAUNCH PROCESSING BEGINS FOR TERRESTAR-1 AT THE SPACEPORT http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/596.asp May 19, 2009 TerreStar-1 has begun pre-launch processing at the Spaceport in French Guiana for its upcoming mission on Ariane 5. The largest commercial telecommunications satellite ever to be launched has already undergone a fit-check with the adapter that will serve as its interface with the Ariane 5. TERRESTAR-1 ARRIVES IN FRENCH GUIANA FOR ITS LATE JUNE LIFTOFF http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/596.asp May 18, 2009 The payload for Ariane 5's third launch of 2009 has landed in French Guiana, arriving aboard an An-124 cargo aircraft from its U.S. production site in Palo Alto, California. TerreStar-1 - the world's largest commercial satellite ever to be launched - will be lofted on a dedicated Ariane 5. ARIANESPACE MARKS ANOTHER SUCCESS FOR ARIANE 5 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/594.asp May 14, 2009 Arianespace completed its second Ariane 5 flight of 2009 this morning, placing the Herschel space telescope and the Planck observatory on their way to deep space missions that will help unlock some of the universe's mysteries. This 44th mission for Ariane 5 - the first with payloads destined for the Sun-Earth system's second Lagrange point - is the 30th consecutive success for the heavy-lift launch vehicle. ARIANE 5 MOVES TO THE LAUNCH ZONE IN PREPARATION FOR TOMORROW'S LIFTOFF http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/592.asp May 13, 2009 Fully integrated with its dual space science payload of Herschel and Planck, Ariane 5 rolled out of its final assembly building this morning and was secured in place on the ELA-3 launch zone at Europe's Spaceport. The heavy-lift vehicle's second mission of 2009 is now ready for final pre-launch preparations and countdown to a rare morning liftoff tomorrow, May 14 at 10:12 a.m. (local time in French Guiana). LAUNCH READINESS FOR MILESTONE ARIANE 5 MISSION IS VALIDATED http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/591.asp May 12, 2009 Ariane 5's deep space science mission has been given the green light for liftoff after a successful launch readiness review of the heavy-lift vehicle, its Herschel and Planck payloads, the Spaceport's infrastructure and the network of downrange tracking stations. This validation clears the way for tomorrow's rollout of the vehicle from its final assembly building to the ELA-3 launch zone. INTEGRATION OF ARIANE 5 IS COMPLETED FOR ARIANESPACE'S SECOND MISSION OF 2009 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/590.asp May 11, 2009 The second Ariane 5 for launch this year is now complete following installation of its payload fairing over the May 14 mission's passengers, Herschel and Planck. This milestone clears the way for final preparation and arming of the launch vehicle, which will be followed by Ariane 5's roll-out to the launch pad on May 13. SECOND PASSENGER INTEGRATED ON ARIANE 5 FOR MAY 14 SPACE SCIENCE MISSION http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/589.asp May 4, 2009 The Herschel space telescope has joined its Planck observatory co-passenger on Ariane 5 at Europe's Spaceport. Preparations for the heavy-lift vehicle's May 14 launch from French Guiana now enter their final phase, which includes a "top-up" of liquid helium in Herschel's cryostat cooling system. ARIANESPACE'S CHAIRMAN & CEO SPEAKS OUT IN "SPACE NEWS" http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2009/04-30-2009-space-news-editorial.asp April 30, 2009 In an editorial published by space industry newspaper Space News, Jean-Yves Le Gall responds to satellite operators' pressure on prices, as well as the push for new entrants to the launch services industry. In addition, Le Gall details Arianespace's efforts to assure quality and bolster capacity within the launch sector. SOYUZ' NEW OPERATING SITE CONTINUES TO TAKE SHAPE http://www.arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2009/2009_04_30_soyuz_launchsite_update.asp April 30, 2009 A photo report details the latest preparations for Soyuz' new operating base at the Spaceport in French Guiana. Now included in the launch site's ground infrastructure is the Soyuz transporter/erector, which will deliver assembled vehicles from their assembly building to the launch pad - where the payloads will be integrated. INTEGRATION MILESTONE FOR ARIANE 5'S LAUNCH WITH HERSCHEL AND PLANCK http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/588.asp April 29, 2009 Ariane 5's lower passenger for its second mission of 2009 - the Planck space observatory - has been encapsulated in the SYLDA dispenser system, which allows the heavy-lift launcher to carry its dual space science payload. Planck will be joined on this upcoming flight from Europe's Spaceport by Herschel, which is the largest space telescope ever launched. LAUNCH DATE SET FOR ARIANE 5 FLIGHT WITH HERSCHEL AND PLANCK http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2009/04-28-09-herschel-planck-new-launch-date.asp April 28, 2009 The second Ariane 5 mission of 2009 is set for a May 14 liftoff, following additional checks on the heavy-lift launch vehicle. This flight will carry the Herschel telescope and Planck observatory - two European Space Agency-developed space science payloads that are designed to study the universe's origins. FINAL PAYLOAD INTEGRATION BEGINS FOR ARIANE 5'S UPCOMING FLIGHT http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/587.asp April 24, 2009 The Planck space observatory has been installed atop Ariane 5's core stage as preparations for the second Arianespace mission of 2009 enter their final phase. Planck is riding in the lower position of the launcher's dual payload "stack," and will be situated below the Herschel space telescope - which is to be integrated next on Ariane 5. LAUNCH INFRASTRUCTURE INSTALLED FOR SOYUZ AT EUROPE'S SPACEPORT http://www.arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2009/2009_04_23_soyuz_launchsite_update.asp April 23, 2009 The Soyuz launch site in French Guiana received its "muscle" with the mounting of a system of four primary support arms and two umbilical masts for the medium-lift vehicle. This installation marked another important step in preparations for the introduction of Soyuz - which will join the heavy-lift Ariane 5 and future lightweight Vega - at its new Spaceport operating base. HERSCHEL SPACE TELESCOPE "CHILLS OUT" FOR ITS UPCOMING ARIANE 5 SPACE SCIENCE MISSION http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/586.asp April 22, 2009 The cryostat of the Herschel space telescope was loaded with liquid helium in preparation for its upcoming launch on Ariane 5. This high-tech cooling system will keep the temperature of Herschel's scientific instrument detectors at absolute zero, which will help the payload gather data on the formation of stars and galaxies. HERSCHEL-PLANCK LAUNCH POSTPONED SEVERAL DAYS http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2009/04-20-09-herschel-planck-launch-delay.asp April 20, 2009 Due to an anomaly discovered during tests on a subassembly identical to one on the Ariane 5 launcher, Arianespace has decided to carry out additional checks, which will take several days. A new launch date will be announced shortly. HIGHLIGHTING A 20-YEAR RELATIONSHIP WITH JAPAN http://www.arianespace.com/news-on-the-move/2009/04-09-japan-week-2009.asp April 16, 2009 Arianespace's yearly Japan Week event included the announcement of SKY Perfect JSAT's launch services contract for the JCSAT-13 satellite.  This was the 27th order won by Arianespace out of 36 Japanese commercial contracts open to competition. ARIANESPACE SELECTED TO LAUNCH SKY PERFECT JSAT CORPORATION'S JCSAT-13 COMMUNICATIONS SATELLITE http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2009/04-16-09-JCSAT-13.asp April 16, 2009 Arianespace's seventh Service & Solutions contract of 2009 was signed with Japanese operator SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation to loft the new JCSAT-13 communications satellite. Ariane 5 is scheduled to launch the satellite - which will provide broadcasting and telecommunications services for Japan and the Asia-Pacific region - from Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana in 2013. THE DUAL-SATELLITE PAYLOAD FOR ARIANE 5'S UPCOMING FLIGHT ENTERS FINAL PREPARATIONS http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/585.asp April 16, 2009 The Herschel space telescope and Planck observatory have now been fueled at the Spaceport, and are being readied for integration in Ariane 5's payload "stack." Both spacecraft were developed in programs managed by the European Space Agency, which is Arianespace's customer for this May 6 flight. ARIANESPACE AWARDED LAUNCH CONTRACT FOR NEW DAWN SATELLITE http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2009/04-14-09-new-dawn.asp April 14, 2009 Arianespace has signed an agreement to orbit the Intelsat New Dawn satellite for New Dawn Satellite Company Ltd. - a joint venture between Intelsat and a South African investor group led by Convergence Partners. New Dawn's launch from the Spaceport in French Guiana is planned for the end of 2010, using an Ariane 5 or Soyuz vehicle. ARIANESPACE SUSTAINS MISSION PACE AS FRENCH GUIANA WELCOMES ANOTHER ARIANE 5 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/584.asp April 10, 2009 Components for the fourth Ariane 5 slated to launch in 2009 arrived in French Guiana this week aboard the MN Toucan transport ship. The launcher elements were then transferred by road to the Spaceport, where they will be positioned for Arianespace's upcoming mission. HERSCHEL IS FUELED FOR ARIANESPACE'S SECOND HEAVY-LIFT FLIGHT OF 2009 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/583.asp April 9, 2009 The Herschel space telescope is undergoing its fueling process at the Spaceport in French Guiana in preparation for Ariane 5's May 6 launch. Both Herschel and the Planck co-passenger were developed in programs managed by the European Space Agency, which is Arianespace's customer for this flight. ARIANE 5'S LIFTOFF IS SET FOR MAY 6 WITH HERSCHEL AND PLANCK http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/582.asp April 8, 2009 The completion of flightworthiness checks on the Herschel space telescope payload has enabled Arianespace to set May 6 as the date for its next Ariane 5 mission. This flight will carry Herschel and Planck - two European Space Agency-developed space science payloads that are designed to study the universe's origins. ARIANESPACE ANNOUNCES 2008 RESULTS http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2009/04-08-09-2008-results.asp April 8, 2009 Arianespace confirmed its world leadership in launch services at the company's Annual General Meeting of Shareholders, announcing 2008 sales of 955.7 million euros, with net income of 2.5 million euros. Arianespace won 13 of the 18 launch contracts open to competition last year, and has successfully performed one Ariane 5 mission and signed five new launch contracts in 2009. ANNOUNCEMENT OF FINAL LAUNCH DATE FOR ARIANE 5 SPACE SCIENCE MISSION POSTPONED http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/581.asp April 2, 2009 The launch date for Ariane 5's mission with Herschel and Planck is under review as verifications of the European space science payloads are being continued. Engineers are awaiting the new date - to be announced shortly - in order to resume final preparations for the mission. ARIANESPACE EMPHASIZES THE PRICE OF QUALITY AT SATELLITE 2009 CONFERENCE http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2009/03-26-2009-satellite-2009.asp March 24, 2009 Arianespace Chairman & CEO Jean-Yves Le Gall underscored the importance of reliable, quality launch services at this week's Satellite 2009 conference in Washington, D.C. Expressing overall confidence about the industry's future, Le Gall also addressed issues such as new market entrants and space-lift capacity. ARIANESPACE ANNOUNCES MANAGEMENT TEAM CHANGES http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2009/03-24-09-management-team-changes.asp March 24, 2009 Chairman & CEO Jean-Yves Le Gall today announced three appointments to the corporate management team following an Arianespace Board of Directors meeting in Evry, France. These changes will take effect on April 15, 2009. BUILD UP ACTIVITY BEGINS FOR A NEW ARIANE 5 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/580.asp March 17, 2009 Assembly of the latest Ariane 5 is underway at French Guiana in preparation for a mission to orbit TerreStar-I, the world’s largest and most powerful telecommunications satellite. TerreStar-I is a mobile services satellite currently entering its final integration and testing phase with U.S. spacecraft manufacturer Space Systems/Loral. NEXT ARIANE 5 LAUNCH DELAYED AT CUSTOMER’S REQUEST http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/579.asp March 13, 2009 Arianespace and the European Space Agency have agreed to postpone the upcoming Ariane 5 mission with Herschel and Plank, allowing time for additional checks on the ground segment of these space science payloads. A new launch date is expected to be announced at the end of March. ARIANESPACE TAKES DELIVERY OF ITS SECOND ARIANE 5 FOR LAUNCH IN 2009 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/578.asp March 10, 2009 Ariane 5 is ready for integration of the Herschel space telescope and Planck observatory following the heavy-lift vehicle's handover to Arianespace yesterday. The two spacecraft - to be lofted by Ariane 5 during its upcoming April 16 mission - will yield new data on the universe's birth and the formation of stars. ARIANE 5 AND ARIANESPACE ARE CHRONICLED IN A DOCUMENTARY SCREENED AT THE SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2009/03-06-2009-sundance-festival.asp March 6, 2009 Arianespace and its Ariane 5 mission have a featured role in "Art & Copy," a documentary about the advertising industry that was screened to positive notices at the world's premier showcase for independent films - the Sundance Film Festival in Utah. As part of the production, Arianespace's Chairman & CEO Jean-Yves Le Gall provided insights on the company's commercial launches, which was compared to the intense efforts that go into the creation of an advertising campaign. THE THIRD ARIANE 5 IS DELIVERED TO FRENCH GUIANA FOR LAUNCH IN 2009 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/577.asp March 5, 2009 Arianespace is maintaining its Ariane 5 mission pace as the third heavy-lift vehicle slated for launch in 2009 arrived at the Spaceport in French Guiana yesterday. TerreStar-1, one of the world's largest commercial satellites, is the Ariane 5's dedicated payload on this upcoming mission. PLANCK IS EQUIPPED FOR ITS APRIL LIFTOFF ON ARIANE 5 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/576.asp March 2, 2009 A photo report from the Spaceport in French Guiana details current integration and checkout preparations with Europe's Planck observatory, which will explore relic radiation from the Big Bang after its April 16 launch by Ariane 5. Planck will be lofted with the Herschel space telescope on Arianespace's second Ariane 5 mission of this year. THE PLANCK OBSERVATORY ARRIVES IN FRENCH GUIANA http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/575.asp February 20, 2009 The two passengers for Arianespace's April 16 mission are now at the Spaceport, following Planck's arrival in French Guiana aboard a chartered An-124 cargo jetliner and subsequent transfer to the S1B clean room. Planck will be joined by Europe's Herschel space telescope during the second Ariane 5 flight of 2009. THE VEGA MOBILE GANTRY COMPLETES ITS INITIAL ROLLOUT TEST http://www.arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2009/2009_02_20_gantry_rollout.asp February 20, 2009 Preparations for Vega's service introduction are progressing in French Guiana, where the initial mobile gantry rollout test has been performed at the Spaceport's refurbished ELA-1 launch site. The ELA-1 facility previously was used for Ariane 1 and 3 vehicles, and is being upgraded and updated to meet Vega's operational requirements. THE SOYUZ LAUNCH SITE REACHES CONSTRUCTION MILESTONE http://www.arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2009/2009_02_19_soyuz_launchsite_update.asp February 19, 2009 The Russian-developed launch system for Soyuz' new base of operations in French Guiana is now being installed at the Spaceport. This activity began with placement of the multi-segment "support crown" on the site's concrete launch pad, followed by the mounting of the first of two umbilical masts. HERSCHEL UNDERGOES INSPECTIONS FOR ITS APRIL 16 FLIGHT WITH ARIANE 5 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/574.asp February 18, 2009 Pre-launch preparations for the Herschel space telescope are underway at Europe's Spaceport, where the spacecraft has completed its inspection for cleanliness. This inspection activity - which utilized ultraviolet light - is part of the verification process to ensure Herschel's 3.5-meter-diameter mirror is free of particles following its cleaning earlier in the month. ARIANESPACE OPENS 2009 WITH ANOTHER SUCCESS FOR ARIANE 5 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/571.asp February 12, 2009 Arianespace completed its year-opening Ariane 5 flight tonight, orbiting payloads for two of the world's leading satellite communications operators - Eutelsat and SES. Tonight's deployment of the multi-satellite payload - consisting of HOT BIRD™ 10, NSS-9 and two Spirale micro-satellites - marks the 43rd mission for Ariane 5, as well as the 29th consecutive success for the heavy-lift launch vehicle. THE FIRST ARIANE 5 LAUNCH OF THIS YEAR ENTERS ITS FINAL COUNTDOWN http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/569.asp February 12, 2009 The final countdown for Arianespace's 2009 year-opening flight is underway, with liftoff scheduled during a 55-minute launch window that opens at 7:09 p.m., local time in French Guiana. This evening's Ariane 5 mission will orbit two primary payloads: HOT BIRD™ 10 for Eutelsat and SES NEW SKIES' NSS-9 - as well as two Spirale micro-satellites. ARIANE 5 CLEARS INITIAL BUILD-UP PHASE FOR SECOND FLIGHT OF 2009 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/570.asp February 12, 2009 Arianespace's workhorse launch vehicle has completed its initial build-up phase for a space exploration mission set for April. The Ariane 5 will carry two space payloads for the European Space Agency: the Herschel space telescope and Planck spacecraft. ARIANE 5 ROLLS OUT TO THE LAUNCH ZONE WITH ITS MULTI-SATELLITE PAYLOAD http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/568.asp February 11, 2009 The heavy-lift Ariane 5 for Arianespace's 2009 year-opening mission has been transferred to the ELA-3 launch complex at Europe's Spaceport. This February 12 flight will orbit two primary payloads: HOT BIRD™ 10 for Eutelsat and SES NEW SKIES' NSS-9 - as well as two Spirale micro-satellites. ARIANE 5 IS READY FOR ITS FEBRUARY 12 LIFTOFF http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/567.asp February 10, 2009 Arianespace's year-opening Ariane 5 flight has completed its launch readiness review at Europe's Spaceport and is on track for the February 12 liftoff with a multi-satellite payload. This launch ushers in another busy year of activity for the workhorse Ariane 5, with plans for six to eight missions in 2009. BUILD-UP PHASE BEGINS FOR THE NEXT ARIANNE 5 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/565.asp February 9, 2009 The launch vehicle for Arianespace's second Ariane 5 flight of 2009 has entered its assembly phase for an April space exploration mission. The Ariane 5 will carry two space payloads for the European Space Agency: the Herschel space telescope and the Planck spacecraft. ARIANESPACE TO LAUNCH YAMAL SATELLITES http://arianespace.com/news-press-release/2009/02-06-09-contract-gazprom.asp February 6, 2009 Arianespace has been selected to orbit Yamal-401 and Yamal-402 within the scope of a contract between Thales Alenia Space and Russian operator Gazprom. To be launched in the second half of 2011 by Ariane 5 ECA launchers, these satellites will provide fixed communications and television transmission services. ARIANE 5 IS READY FOR ITS FEBRUARY 12 LIFTOFF http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/564.asp February 4, 2009 Final assembly of the launcher for Arianespace's year-opening flight is complete following the full installation of its multi-satellite payload at the Spaceport. HOT BIRD™ 10, which is encapsulated in the launch vehicle's protective fairing, has been positioned over the NSS-9 spacecraft - completing the payload "stack" atop Ariane 5's cryogenic core stage. ARIANESPACE SELECTED TO LAUNCH ARABSAT 5C AND ARABSAT 6B http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2009/02-04-09-contrat-arabsat-5C-6B.asp February 4, 2009 Arianespace will orbit two satellites for the Saudi Arabia-based operator Arabsat. The Arabsat 5C spacecraft is scheduled for launch by an Ariane 5 ECA from the third quarter of 2011, with Arabsat 6B's liftoff planned from the second half of 2012. These two agreements are the 14th and 15th launch Service & Solutions contracts Arianespace has signed in the Middle East. HOT BIRD™ 10 AND NSS-9 REACH NEW INTEGRATION MILESTONES FOR ARIANE 5'S YEAR-OPENING MISSION http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/563.asp February 3, 2009 The payload "stack" for Arianespace's upcoming launch is nearing completion at Europe's Spaceport, as preparations continue for the multi-passenger Ariane 5 flight on February 12. During activity in the Final Assembly Building, the mission's primary payloads marked new milestones in their integration - with NSS-9 installed atop the launch vehicle and HOT BIRD™ 10 encapsulated by Ariane 5's large payload fairing. NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC CHANNEL SPOTLIGHTS ARIANE 5 http://arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2009/02-03-2009-toughest_fixes_TV.asp February 3, 2009 The heavy-lift Ariane 5 is set to star in an upcoming episode of the National Geographic Channel's World's Toughest Fixes, which will showcase the launch vehicle's vital role in supporting global communications systems. A five-member crew from the program has been filming preparations for the year-opening Arianespace mission at Europe's Spaceport, and will continue through the February 12 evening liftoff and deployment of Ariane 5's multi-passenger payload. ARIANESPACE SIGNS SERVICE & SOLUTIONS CONTRACT FOR HISPASAT 1E http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2009/02-03-09-contract-hispasat-1e.asp February 3, 2009 Arianespace has signed a launch agreement with Hispasat to loft the Spanish operator's Hispasat 1E satellite with an Ariane 5. It is the first contract signed by Arianespace this year. To be orbited in 2010, Hispasat 1E will provide additional capacity for Hispasat - enabling the Spanish operator to offer a broader range of video and data transmission services with European and pan-American coverage. ARIANESPACE ORDERS 35 ARIANE 5 ECA LAUNCH VEHICLES http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2009/02-02-09-launcher-order-from-astrium.asp February 2, 2009 Arianespace has signed a contract with Astrium Space Transportation for the production of 35 heavy-lift Ariane 5 ECAs. Designated the "PB" batch, these launch vehicles will be deployed on missions beginning in the second half of 2010. This agreement - worth more than 4 billion euros - follows the letter of intent signed at the 2007 Paris Air Show, and brings Arianespace's total number of Ariane 5 launchers under production to 49. PAYLOAD "STACK" BUILDUP BEGINS FOR ARIANE 5'S YEAR-OPENING MISSION http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/562.asp January 30, 2009 The payload "stack" for Arianespace's initial flight of 2009 is taking shape at the Spaceport, where the Eutelsat HOT BIRD™ 10 satellite has been installed atop Ariane 5's SYLDA dispenser system. With the creation of the payload stack's upper component, the HOT BIRD 10/SYLDA combination is now ready to be positioned over the mission's lower passenger - SES NEW SKIES' NSS-9. NSS-9 and HOT BIRD 10 will be joined on the February 12 launch by a pair of 120-kg.-class Spirale microsatellites, which are demonstrators for a French space-based optical early warning program. THE SPACEPORT RECEIVES AN ARIANE 5 FOR A MISSION TO EXPLORE THE UNIVERSE'S MYSTERIES http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/561.asp January 29, 2009 The sea-going MN Toucan ship has delivered an Ariane 5 to French Guiana that will be launched in April with Europe's Herschel and Planck space science payloads. Herschel will be the largest space telescope of its kind ever lofted, while Planck will analyze radiation remnants that filled the universe immediately after the Big Bang. ARIANESPACE BEGINS FINAL PAYLOAD INTEGRATION FOR ITS YEAR-OPENING ARIANE 5 MISSION http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/560.asp January 28, 2009 Preparations for Arianespace's initial Ariane 5 flight of 2009 entered a new phase with the startup of final payload integration at Europe's Spaceport. This activity began with HOT BIRD™ 10's installation atop its adapter unit, which functions as the interface between the satellite and Ariane 5's payload "stack." HOT BIRD 10 will be accompanied on the February 12 launch by the NSS-9 relay platform, as well as a pair of 120-kg.-class Spirale micro-satellites. ARIANESPACE RECEIVES THE ARIANE 5 FOR ITS FEBRUARY 12 FLIGHT http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/559.asp January 27, 2009 Arianespace has taken delivery of the Ariane 5 launcher for its initial mission of 2009, which will orbit a three-element payload of NSS-9, HOT BIRD™ 10 and two small Spirale satellites. The delivery was marked by Ariane 5's transfer from the Spaceport's Launcher Integration Building - where the launch vehicle's initial build-up was performed by industrial prime contractor EADS Astrium Space Transportation - to the Final Assembly Building, where Arianespace will oversee payload integration. Communications policies for Soyuz operations at the Spaceport are developed by Arianespace and Roscosmos http://arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2009/2009_01_22_soyuz_media_relations_communication.asp January 22, 2009 A working meeting with Arianespace and Russian Federal Space Agency (Roscosmos) representatives has focused on informational and communications policies for Soyuz missions - covering such topics as procedures for accommodating the news media, along with the means of providing regular updates during launch campaigns for this medium-lift vehicle. The January 20-21 meeting in Moscow is among the preparations for Soyuz' planned start-up of launch operations from the Spaceport late this year. HOT BIRD™ 10 AND NSS-9 ARE READIED FOR ARIANE 5'S INITIAL FLIGHT OF 2009 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/558.asp January 19, 2009 Preparations for Arianespace's February 12 mission are in full swing following delivery of the SES NEWSKIES NSS-9 satellite to French Guiana and the fueling of Eutelsat's HOT BIRD™ 10. NSS-9 arrived at Cayenne's Rochambeau International Airport aboard a chartered Antonov An-124 cargo jetliner on January 16. It was then transferred by road to the Spaceport, where the satellite was removed from its protective shipping container and underwent a fit check with the adapter that will serve as its interface with Ariane 5. In parallel activity, the mission's other primary passenger - HOT BIRD 10 - was loaded with its propellant during fueling operations in the Spaceport's S5 building. SECOND SHIPMENT OF SOYUZ LAUNCH SITE HARDWARE ARRIVES IN FRENCH GUIANA http://www.arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2009/2009_01_13_welcomes_its_second_large_shipment.asp January 13, 2009 Europe's Spaceport has welcomed another major shipment of hardware and systems for the new Soyuz launch site as preparations continue for the medium-lift vehicle's inaugural mission from French Guiana later this year. Arriving aboard the Flinterland sea-going vessel on January 8, the unloading of 125 containers and boxes was completed yesterday - with the hardware and material transferred to the Spaceport by road. This is the second major delivery of material for the Soyuz complex transported by the Flinterland, and it contained a significant portion of the remaining Russian-built ground systems necessary for the launch site's completion. HOT BIRD™ 10 BEGINS PRE-LAUNCH PROCESSING FOR ARIANESPACE'S FEBRUARY 12 MISSION http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/557.asp January 12, 2009 Eutelsat's HOT BIRD™ 10 has begun its checkout for launch at the Spaceport in French Guiana, where this spacecraft has now been removed from its protective shipping container. HOT BIRD™ 10 will be part of a multi-passenger payload for the heavy-lift Ariane 5's initial flight of 2009 – joining SES NEWSKIES' NSS-9 telecommunications satellite and two Spirale auxiliary passengers. HOT BIRD™ 10 ARRIVES IN FRENCH GUIANA FOR ITS FEBRUARY LIFTOFF http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2009/556.asp January 8, 2009 Eutelsat's HOT BIRD™ 10 satellite was delivered to French Guiana today, arriving aboard a chartered cargo jetliner that completed its transatlantic flight from Europe. HOT BIRD 10 will be orbited as part of a multi-passenger payload on Arianespace's initial Ariane 5 launch of 2008 - joining SES NEWSKIES' NSS-9 telecommunications satellite and two Spirale auxiliary passengers. The spacecraft is identical to the HOT BIRD™ 9 relay platform, which was successfully orbited by Ariane 5 during Arianespace's year-ending 2008 mission on December 20. ARIANESPACE TO FOCUS ON THE LAUNCHER FAMILY IN 2009 http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2008/30-12-08-Intelsat-contract.asp January 6, 2009 Arianespace confirmed its position as the world's leading commercial launch provider in 2008, and will build upon that success this year with a focus on its expanded family of launch vehicles. Six to eight Ariane 5 launches are slated in 2009, with payloads such as the European Space Agency's Herschel astronomy space telescope and the organization's Planck cosmic background mapping satellite - as well as Terrestar-1, one of the world's largest commercial communications satellites. In addition, Soyuz will be launched for the first time from the Guiana Space Center, enabling Arianespace to carry out eight missions with the vehicle by the end of 2010, from either French Guiana or Baikonur Cosmodrome. The development of the Vega launcher also will be completed in 2009, leading to its commercial service entry in 2010. ARIANESPACE ANNOUNCES CONTRACT WITH INTELSAT http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2008/30-12-08-Intelsat-contract.asp December 30, 2008 Arianespace has won a contract with Intelsat covering the launch of one satellite, plus the option to loft four more satellites between 2011 and 2015. Arianespace will call on the Ariane 5 and Soyuz launch vehicles to deploy innovative solutions to meet the requirements of Intelsat's upcoming satellites - which range in size from 3,000 to 6,100 kg. ARIANESPACE FORMALLY INAUGURATES NEW LOOK AND BRANDING http://www.arianespace.com/news-feature-story/2009/01-01-2009-new-logo-launch.asp January 1, 2009 Arianespace has unveiled its new graphic style, providing a refreshed corporate identity for the world's leading commercial launch services provider. An evolution of Arianespace's previous identity, this new look includes incorporation of the company's "Service & Solutions" motto as an integral part of the corporate logo. In addition, the logo's stylized arrow has been reoriented to the right, reflecting Arianespace's forward-looking business strategy and symbolizing the introduction of Soyuz and Vega at the Spaceport beginning in 2009. ARIANESPACE SELECTED TO LAUNCH NILESAT 201 http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2008/23-12-08-Nilesat201-to-be-launched-by-Arianespace.asp December 23, 2008 Arianespace will launch the Nilesat 201 satellite as part of a turnkey contract that Thales Alenia Space has with Nilesat. To be lofted into geostationary transfer orbit by an Ariane 5 or Soyuz vehicle during the first quarter of 2010, Nilesat 201 will be the third satellite launched by Arianespace for the Egyptian operator - following Nilesat 101 and 102, which were successfully orbited in 1998 and 2000, respectively. ARIANE 5 ORBITS HOT BIRD™ 9 AND W2M ON ITS SIXTH MISSION OF 2008 http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2008/554.asp December 20, 2008 Arianespace completed its ninth year of Ariane 5 operations with another on-target dual-payload mission from French Guiana. Launched from the Spaceport's ELA-3 complex, the heavy-lift Ariane 5 ECA orbited HOT BIRD™ 9 and W2M for Europe's Eutelsat telecommunications operator - marking the 28th consecutive success for the workhorse launch vehicle. Payload lift performance for tonight's launch was approximately 8,340 kg., bringing the total payload mass lofted by Ariane 5's six missions in 2008 to more than 56,700 kg. ARIANESPACE ANNOUNCES TWO ADDITIONAL SERVICE & SOLUTIONS CONTRACTS http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2008/archive.asp December 20, 2008 Maintaining its industry leadership, Arianespace has won two additional contracts for international payloads to be orbited on its Ariane 5 and Soyuz launch vehicles. The company's 26th launch contract in Japan is for an Ariane 5 mission with the BSAT-3c/JCSAT-110R satellite during the first half of 2011. BSAT-3c/JCSAT-110R is being launched on behalf of Japanese operators B-SAT Corporation and SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation, within the scope of a turnkey launch contract with the American manufacturer Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems. Separately, EADS Astrium has selected Arianespace to orbit Chile's SSOT (Sistema Satelital para Observación de la Tierra) Earth observation satellite, with a launch slated for the first half of 2010. SSOT is a high-resolution Earth observation satellite that will be boosted into Sun-synchronous orbit by a Soyuz launcher from the Spaceport in French Guiana. ARIANE 5 IS ON THE LAUNCH PAD FOR ITS DECEMBER 20 LIFTOFF http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2008/552.asp December 19, 2008 Arianespace today rolled out the Ariane 5 for its sixth mission of 2008, clearing the way for a final countdown to liftoff with Eutelsat's HOT BIRD™ 9 and W2M satellites. The heavy-lift ECA emerged from its Final Assembly Building at 11:00 a.m., and arrived at the ELA-3 launch area 1 hr. 15 min. later, where it was secured in place. The two Eutelsat spacecraft will be deployed during a flight lasting approximately 32 minutes, with liftoff from French Guiana scheduled at the 6:51 p.m. opening of a 59-minute launch window. THE SIXTH ARIANE 5 OF 2008 IS CLEARED FOR LIFTOFF http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2008/551.asp December 18, 2008 Arianespace's year-end flight has been given the go-ahead following its launch readiness review, which was conducted today at the Spaceport. This review validated the readiness of Ariane 5, its dual satellite payload of HOT BIRD 9 and W2M, the infrastructure at Europe's Spaceport and the network of downrange tracking stations. The heavy-lift Ariane 5 ECA is now clear for its transfer to the ELA-3 launch zone, with liftoff scheduled on December 20 during a launch window that opens at 6:51 p.m. local time in French Guiana. SEASON'S GREETINGS FROM ARIANESPACE http://www.arianespace.com/index/index.asp December 16, 2008 Arianespace has issued its 2009 New Year's e-card, which highlights the company's family of launch vehicles - composed of the heavy-lift Ariane 5, medium-lift Soyuz and lightweight Vega.