ESA Image: Ariane 5 fairing hovers over ATV-3

In preparation for the first launch of Ariane 5 in 2012, the third ATV-Edoardo Amaldi is integrated into its fairing.

ATV-3 will carry several tons of fuels and propellants, as well as food and equipment, to the International Space Station.

The launch of ESA's third Automated Transfer Vehicle is targeting 23 March, with a liftoff scheduled for 04:31 GMT (05:31 CET).

A routine inspection concluded that additional measures are required to ensure the maximum readiness of the third Automated Transfer Vehicle for launch. It was therefore decided to postpone the launch previously scheduled for 9 March.
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For more information on ESA's ATV mission, please visit: www.esa.int/SPECIALS/ATV/index.html

Credits: ESA/CNES/Arianespace/Optique Video du CSG - P.Baudon