Payload preparations are underway for Arianespace's first launch of 2010
The first-arrived payload for Ariane 5's year-opening flight is undergoing initial checkout at Europe's Spaceport as preparations move forward for a dual-passenger mission set for March 24. After ASTRA 3B's delivery in French Guiana earlier this month, the spacecraft was moved into the Spaceport's S5 facility - where it has since undergone initial fit-check validation with the adapter that will serve as the satellite's interface with Ariane 5. Read more