The 2nd ATV is readied for its 2011 launch

Pre-launch preparations have advanced for Arianespace’s upcoming mission with the second Automated Transfer Vehicle, which will be orbited on Ariane’s milestone 200th flight. Recent activity in the Spaceport’s S5 payload preparation facility includes loading of the spacecraft’s cargo and a validation of its solar panel deployment sequence. Named after the German astronomer and mathematician Johannes Kepler, the ATV is targeted for a February 15, 2011 liftoff on Ariane 5.