Ariane 5

Arianespace has started assembly of the heavy-lift launcher for Ariane 5’s sixth mission.

Ariane 5 is undergoing a multi-step process at the French Guiana spaceport’s launcher integration building.

The vehicle’s cryogenic core stage has been placed over its mobile launch table, when two solid propellant boosters will be integrated, Arianespace said.

Designated as Flight VA221, the mission includes two satellites, DIRECTV-14 and Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) GSAT-16.

Designed by Space Systems/Loral (SSL), DIRECTV-14 is built on SSL’s 1300-series platform and incorporates Ka-band and Reverse DBS band.

"The satellite will allow DIRECTV to expand its direct-to-home digital entertainment services across the US and Puerto Rico."

The satellite will allow DIRECTV to expand its direct-to-home digital entertainment services across the US and Puerto Rico. The satellite is designed to operate for around 15 years.

The DIRECTV-14 has been transported to the French Guiana spaceport from Félix Eboué International Airport near the capital city of Cayenne where it was landed by a chartered An-124 cargo jetliner.

Arianespace has secured a contract from ISRO in November 2013 to launch the GSAT 15 and GSAT 16 telecommunications satellites.

The GSAT 16 is designed to provide C and Ku-band telecommunications services, including VSAT transmissions, TV broadcasting and emergency communications.

The latest developments come after Ariane 5’s fifth mission commenced final integration in preparation for lift-off on 16 October with ARSAT-1 and Intelsat DLA-1 onboard.

Image: One of Ariane 5’s two solid propellant boosters rolls out for integration with the core stage. Photo: courtesy of Arianespace.

Defence Technology