ESA ATV-3 (Edoardo Amaldi) set to provide annual service to Space Station

The third Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV-3), to be launched to the International Space Station in March 2012, is named after Italian physicist and spaceflight pioneer Edoardo Amaldi. 

ATVs are an essential contribution by Europe for supplying and maintaining the International Space Station.

The vessels are named after great European scientists and visionaries to highlight Europe’s deep roots in science, technology and culture.

Credits: ESA

Ariane 5 ES launcher for the ATV Edoardo Amaldi is taking shape at Europe's Spaceport in Kourou as the cryogenic main stage, with its the Vulcain 2 engine, was hoisted to vertical position inside the Launcher Integration Building. 

The lower composite of the launcher - the rocket without the payload and fairing - is assembled from the main central stage and two solid boosters in this 58-m high facility.

Credits: ESA, Arianespace, Optique Video du CSG - J.M. Guillon