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December 11 launch day update: The final countdown begins for 
Arianespace's "10-ton" Ariane 5

The final countdown is underway for Arianespace's first mission with 
its increased-lift "10-ton" Ariane 5.

Activity began in the morning hours as Ariane 5 and the Spaceport were
configured for this evening's liftoff. Fueling of the launcher's 
cryogenic central stage and upper stage will follow, after the launch 
zone is evacuated.

The 53-minute launch window opens at 7:21 p.m.

Flight 157 will carry two satellite payloads, demonstrating the Ariane 
5's capability to pair up all types of spacecraft for efficient dual 
launches.  The first satellite to be deployed is the Eutelsat HOT 
BIRDTM 7 TV broadcast platform, followed minutes later by the French 
CNES space agency's STENTOR telecom demonstrator spacecraft.

The Ariane 5 used for today's mission is the first launcher with a 
10-ton payload lift capacity to geostationary transfer orbit (GTO) -- 
increased performance that will further improve Arianespace's 
competitiveness.

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