The Ariane 5 for Flight 145 is taking shape as preparations begin for
returning the heavy-lift launcher to operational status at Europe’s
Spaceport.
The launch campaign began on September 11, when the cryogenic central stage
was removed from its shipping container and raised into position over the
mobile launch table. The Ariane 5’s two large solid boosters were then mated
to the central stage. This activity took place inside the Ariane 5 launcher
integration building, situated in the ELA-3 launch complex.
In a show of respect following this week’s tragic events in the U.S., flags
at the Spaceport were brought to half staff and the facility observed three
minutes of silence today.
