Ariane 5 launch campaigns

A launch campaign can be divided into three specific campaigns that progress in parallel:

• the launcher campaign
• the satellites preparation campaign
• the spaceport preparation campaign

 

All three were performed independently by different teams, but the campaigns were carefully synchronised to ensure that all the components were ready in time.

The satellite and launcher campaigns converged in the Final Assembly Building 12 days before an Ariane 5 launch date. Work then begun mounting the satellites on top of the launcher.

The next step took place three days before launch when the joint launcher and satellite campaigns converged with the spaceport campaign. From then the final rehearsal for liftoff could take place.

Final countdown

One day before a liftoff, the Ariane 5 rocket with its payload, was transferred from the Final Assembly Building to the launch pad along a rail track. Once the mobile launch table was connected to the launch zone final countdown could begin.

 

During the final countdown:

• the main stage cryogenic tanks were filled
• the various launcher subsystems were activated and checked
• the flight program was loaded

 

Finally, at HO –6 min 30s the automatic sequence covering the final checks and launcher activation procedures began, ending at H0 +7.5 s with ignition.

Liftoff

“10, 9, 8, …” from behind security glass in the Jupiter Control Centre, 12 km away from the launch pad, the Director of Operations announced the final countdown in the presence of representatives of ESA, Arianespace, CNES, the satellite clients and guests.

“… 3,2,1, décollage” the launcher lifts off from the launch table. The Ariane 5 is on automatic pilot and is carefully monitored as it carries its payload into orbit.

Finally, 40 minutes after liftoff, the satellite client receives confirmation that their spacecraft has arrived in the correct orbit. Now, the Ariane 5 mission is complete.