Avio: first success of 2016 with Ariane 5

This is the 273rd mission carried out by the European family of launchers, which includes the VEGA – a next-generation launcher designed and built by AVIO through its ELV subsidiary. The two motors produced by AVIO provided the necessary thrust to Ariane 5 in the first 120 seconds after take-off.

The vehicle has been launched from the European Space Centre in Kourou (French Guiana), at 8:20 (12:20 PM in Rome), and carried a total payload of 6,700 kg. Giulio Ranzo, the CEO of AVIO, said: “Ariane 5 completed successfully its 84th mission and we are proud of this result. With the participation to the Ariane program and, even more with its flagship VEGA, AVIO strongly contributes to Italy’s role in the European space industry. We are aware of having an important responsibility, and successes like the one of today lead us to go on and further develop our technologies. A special recognition to our teams in Italy, France and in French Guiana that with punctuality and professionalism make these successes possible.”

The Intelsat 29e is the 56th satellite launched into orbit by Arianespace for international operator Intelsat. The two companies began working together in 1983 with the orbital launch of the Intelsat 507 on the Ariane 1 launcher.
The Intelsat 29e is the first of a new generation of Intelsat satellites that feature EpicNG high transmission capacity. It will provide telecommunications operators and companies in general with high-quality broadband connectivity for communication on fixed and mobile networks across the Americas. It will also cover the North Atlantic and the Caribbean islands with mobility services on the sea and in the air.