[SatNews] Pre-launch payload processing is moving into full swing for Arianespace’s next Ariane 5 flight, with the mission’s ISDLA-1 telecommunications satellite now undergoing preparations for a targeted October 16 liftoff from French Guiana.

Preparation activity is underway with Ariane 5 Flight VA220’s ISDLA-1 co-passenger at the Spaceport’s S5C facility in French Guiana.

Photo courtesy of Arianespace.

To be orbited for two long-standing Arianespace partners—Intelsat and DIRECTV—the high-powered ISDLA-1 is built by SSL (Space Systems/Loral) based on the 1300-series satellite platform. Following its deployment from Ariane 5, this spacecraft will expand direct-to-home entertainment offerings in Latin America, along with providing backup and restoration services. With a design life of 15 years, ISDLA-1 will be co-located with Intelsat’s Galaxy 3C satellite at 95 degrees West.

Ariane 5 will also carry the milestone ARSAT-1 spacecraft for ARSAT on this heavy-lift mission. As the first geostationary satellite built in Argentina, ARSAT-1 is produced by INVAP with Airbus Defence and Space and Thales Alenia Space serving as leading equipment suppliers. From its orbital position at 72 degrees West, ARSAT-1 will deliver a wide range of telecommunications, data transmission, telephone and television services across Argentina, Chile, Uruguay and Paraguay.

Arianespace’s upcoming October heavy-lift mission is scheduled to be the fifth Ariane 5 launch this year and is designated Flight VA220 in the company’s numbering system.

Follow Arianespace's launch activity at: http://www.arianespace.com.