Last-Minute Anomaly Postpones Intelsat New Dawn Launch

[Satellite TODAY 04-01-11] Arianespace postponed its Ariane 5 flight VA201 mission in the last seconds of its countdown after an anomaly was detected on the launcher’s Vulcain cryogenic main stage engine during the final ignition checkout process, the launch company announced March 30.
    The Ariane 5 was slated to carry the Intelsat New Dawn and Yahsat Y1A satellites into orbit. Arianespace switched the payloads into safe-mode and will transfer the rocket to its final assembly building where it will be returned to flight-ready condition.
    Arianespace said a data analysis is underway to determine the cause of the anomaly and that a new launch date would be set as soon as possible.