VA-224 - Launcher Status (1)

An Ariane 5 ECA rocket will put MSG-4 in orbit. The VA-224/L-578  (i.e. the 224th of an Ariane 5 rocket and the 78th of on Ariane 5 rocket) launch will be a double launch with StarOne C4 in upper position and MSG-4 in lower position.

In parallel to spacecraft preparation, the launcher is being integrated in the BIL (Batiment Integration Lanceur).  Once ready, the Ariane 5 will be transferred to the BAF (Final Assembly Building), where the two spacecrafts will be mated on the top and covered by the fairing. An overview of the launcher status on 15/05/2015 is given below. Credits for all pictures: ESA-Arianespace

1-Transfer of EAP (Solid Propellant Booster) to BIL (Launcher Assembly Building)

2-EPC (Cryogenic Core Stage) integration in the BIL

 3-EPC is hoisted in BIL

4-EPC erection in BIL before assembly of the EAP (Solid Propellant Boosters)

A more complete overview about the VA-224 launcher can be found on the CNES blog.