VA-208 dual satcom payload undergo last preparations

As of July 23, 2012, Ariane Flight VA-208's satellite passengers are undergoing last preparations for their August 2 launch mission.

The French Guiana-located Spaceport’s S5B dual-function hall is hosting the HYLAS 2 satellite. At the time of this writing, the satellite has received its propellant, which it will use to maneuver itself once in orbit. Manufactured by Orbital Sciences Corporation on behalf of satellite communications company Avanti Communications, HYLAS 2's cutting-edge Ka-band technology will deliver high-speed, low-cost two-way data communications. The Ka-band satellite can direct 24 fixed beams and one steerable beam to provide data capacity to rapidly-expanding African, Middle Eastern, and Caucasus markets.

HYLAS 2's companion, the Intelsat 20 platform, has already been mounted on its adapter interface with the Ariane 5 rocket. Built by Space Systems/Loral for satellite communications company Intelsat, the C-band / Ku-band satellite specializes in delivering high-power distribution of video, voice, and data network services using legacy C-band and Ku-band payload. This spacecraft will replace the earlier, co-located Intelsat 7 and Intelsat 10 communications satellites.

The upcoming Arianespace Flight VA-208 will be the 208th mission of an Ariane family vehicle. Commission by satellite communication companies Intelsat and Avanti, VA-208 will also be the fourth mission for the heavy-lift Ariane 5 for this year.