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Mission Update

Ariane 5 is readied for a dual-payload mission at the service of Europe’s Eutelsat

October 6, 2008

This wide-angle image shows the Ariane 5 in the Spaceport’s Launcher Assembly Building.

The heavy-lift Ariane 5 for Arianespace’s sixth mission of 2008 is completing its initial build-up in the Launcher Assembly Building at Europe’s Spaceport as preparations continue for a late November liftoff.

This flight will carry two multi-role telecommunications satellites for European operator Eutelsat: HOT BIRD™ 9 and W2M.

The November mission was rescheduled from its original October liftoff timing due to a lack of satellite availability from the original manifest. In rapidly rescheduling the flight, Arianespace demonstrated its reactivity in teaming up payloads for Ariane 5’s trademark dual-passenger launches.

HOT BIRD^TM 9 will be positioned at Eutelsat's premium video orbital slot of 13 degrees East after its launch on Ariane 5. The spacecraft’s broad footprint and high emission power will allow digital and new HDTV channels – along with interactive services – to be received by small DTH antennas and cable and community networks throughout Europe, North Africa and the Middle East.

The W2M spacecraft will be located at Eutelsat's 16 degrees East orbital position, typically providing 26-transponder coverage in Ku-band – with the equivalent of up to 32 transponders depending on operational modes. It is designed to provide services that range from television broadcasting to data networks and broadband. The satellite’s fixed beam will cover Europe, North Africa and the Middle East, while a steerable beam can be re-oriented in-orbit according to market requirements – notably towards Africa and central Asia.

For additional information on Arianespace’s rescheduled late November mission:

• See the Arianespace press release