Payload preparations are underway for Arianespace?s first launch of 2010

(Arianespace) - 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 (see photo).



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