Arianespace CEO Jean-Yves Le Gall admits the upcoming launch of the Ariane 5 ECA vehicle will be a key exclamation point for the company in 2005. Le Gall told Satellite Today, “We are preparing the next launch of the Ariane 5 ECA, which will be the biggest challenge for us at the beginning of the year. It is very important that we have a successful launch of Ariane 5 ECA. It is the single most important event for the company in 2005.”

Arianespace said late last week that the Launcher System Rehearsal for the Ariane 5 ECA heavy launcher took place on Jan. 12, as scheduled. This operation was a rehearsal for the entire launch countdown, including tests of all launcher equipment and ground facilities. The launch is planned for Feb. 11. The initial launch of the Ariane 5 ECA vehicle failed in December 2002. The vehicle has a 10-ton payload lift capacity.

An exclusive in-depth interview with Jean-Yves Le Gall can be found in the January 17 issue of Satellite News. For more information about subscribing to Access Intelligence’s satellite newsletters, check out our Web site at https://www.satellitetoday.com