The Ariane 5 ECA rocket - 06/2008
author: ESA/Arianespace/ S.Corvaja/Novapix
reference: e-leu12-01300
Image Size 300 DPI: 19 * 29 cm
The Ariane 5 ECA launcher, on its mobile launch table, shortly after its transfer from the Final Assembly Building at the Launch Zone (ZL-3) of Ariane Launch Complex no.3 (ELA-3) at the Guiana Space Centre, Europe's Spaceport.
Lift-off of flight V183 took place at 00:05 CEST/Paris on 13 June (22:05 UTC/GMT; 19:05 UTC-3/Kourou [12 June]). The satellites were accurately injected into the correct transfer orbits about 30 minutes later.
The payload comprised Skynet 5C - which will deliver secure communication links for UK government and military users - and Turksat 3A - which will provide telecommunication services and direct TV broadcasting for Turkey, Europe, the Middle East, North Africa and Central Asia. The payload mass was 8541 kg; the satellite masses totalled 7748 kg, with payload adapters and dispensers making up the additional 797 kg.