Arianespace Flight 161: The first phase of Ariane’s integration is nearly complete

The Ariane 5 for Arianespace’s upcoming dual-satellite launch is nearing
completion of its first phase of integration as the launcher takes shape at
the Spaceport.

Following the mating of Ariane 5’s core cryogenic stage and two booster
stages on the mobile launch table in the launcher integration building,
activity continued last week with the installation of the equipment bay and
EPS upper stage.

Liftoff of Flight 161 remains on schedule for early June with the Optus and
Defence C1 spacecraft for Australia, and BSAT-2c for the Broadcasting
Satellite System Corporation (B-SAT) of Japan.