JCSAT-12 AND OPTUS D3 SPACECRAFT ARE ONE STEP CLOSER TO LIFTOFF

Integration of both satellite payloads continues for Arianespace’s fourth heavy-lift mission of 2009, set for a nighttime launch from Europe’s Spaceport on August 21. The flight’s lower passenger, Optus D3, has been installed atop its adapter unit, while Ariane 5’s payload fairing is now in place over the JCSAT-12 satellite and the SYLDA dispenser system.