Arianespace receives its sixth Ariane 5 for launch in 2008

(Arianespace) – The sixth Ariane 5 of 2008 has been accepted by Arianespace following its transfer to the Final Assembly Building at Europe’s Spaceport, where the launch vehicle’s dual-satellite payload will be integrated.

This heavy-lift Ariane 5 ECA is scheduled for liftoff before the end of 2008, carrying two satellites for European telecommunications provider Eutelsat: HOT BIRD 9 and W2M.

This unusual view uses a wide-angle lens to highlight Ariane 5 on its launch table prior to its transfer from the Launcher Integration Building at Europe’s Spaceport to the Final Assembly Building. At the right are work platforms that provide access to the launcher at various levels, and which are shown in their retracted position for the Ariane 5’s rollout.

The Ariane 5 underwent its initial build-up in the Spaceport’s Launcher Integration Building, where the core cryogenic stage, two solid propellant boosters, upper stage and vehicle equipment bay were assembled. After completion, Ariane 5 industrial prime contractor Astrium delivered the vehicle to Arianespace for payload installation, final checkout and launch.

For Arianespace’s upcoming dual-payload mission at the service of Eutelsat, the HOT BIRD 9 and W2M satellite passengers will have a combined liftoff weight of approximately 8,340 kg.

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