Astra 3B & COMSATBw-2
Ariane 5 ECA
Arianespace
Mission
Astra 3B & COMSATBw-2
- Type: Communications
- Orbit: Geostationary Transfer Orbit
Astra 3B is one of the Astra satellites operated by SES to provide digital television & radio for direct to home communications for Europe and the Middle East, operating at 23.5 degrees East. COMSATBw 1 is a satellite providing German military communications for voice and fax as well as advanced data, video and multimedia.
Location
Ariane Launch Area 3
Guiana Space Centre, French Guiana
Ariane Launch Area 3 has witnessed the launch of 118 rockets, including 118 orbital launch attempts. While Guiana Space Centre, French Guiana, has been the site for 331 rocket launches.
The Guiana Space Centre is a European spaceport to the northwest of Kourou in French Guiana, a region of France in South America. Kourou is located at a latitude of 5°. In operation since 1968, it is a suitable location for a spaceport because of its equatorial location and open sea to the east.
Rocket
ArianeGroup Ariane 5 ECA
Ariane 5 is a heavy-lift launch vehicle, part of the Ariane rocket family.
Agency
Arianespace
Arianespace SA is a multinational company founded in 1980 as the world's first commercial launch service provider. It undertakes the production, operation, and marketing of the Ariane programme. Their vehicles launch exclusively from French Guiana in South America.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Ariane 5 ECA launch scheduled?
The Arianespace Ariane 5 ECA launch carrying the Astra 3B & COMSATBw-2 mission was scheduled for:
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Where did the Ariane 5 ECA launch from?
The Arianespace Ariane 5 ECA rocket launched from Ariane Launch Area 3 at Guiana Space Centre, French Guiana. The Guiana Space Centre is a European spaceport to the northwest of Kourou in French Guiana, a region of France in South America. Kourou is located at a latitude of 5°. In operation since 1968, it is a suitable location for a spaceport because of its equatorial location and open sea to the east.
What rocket was used for the Astra 3B & COMSATBw-2 mission?
The Astra 3B & COMSATBw-2 mission launched aboard a Arianespace Ariane 5 ECA rocket. Ariane 5 is a heavy-lift launch vehicle, part of the Ariane rocket family. Detailed rocket specifications and performance data are available in the rocket details above.
What weather conditions could have delayed this launch?
The Ariane 5 ECA launch could have been delayed by various weather conditions including lightning within 10 nautical miles, high winds (especially upper-level winds), thick cloud layers, precipitation, and poor visibility. Weather must be favorable at the launch site, downrange landing zones, and abort landing sites.
How can I get updates if the launch is delayed?
This page is updated in real-time with the latest launch status, including any delays or scrubs. You can also check our space launch schedule for the most current information. Enable push notifications through our mobile app to receive instant alerts about launch status changes, weather holds, or new launch times. We recommend following official live streams for the most immediate range updates.
