First roll-out at ELA-2 launch complex

The first roll-out at the ELA-2 launch complex at Kourou, French Guiana. Ariane-3 V17 was launched 28 March 1986 carrying the Gstar-2 and Brasilsat-2 communications satellites. The picture shows V17 on its mobile launch platform close to arrival at the umbilical tower (right). The service tower (left) can then envelop the stack, allowing its cleanroom to be used for adding the payload assembly. Ariane's solid boosters, if any, are also added on the pad. [Image Date: 30-01-86] [86.02.002-140]