Due to logistics difficulties in French Guiana, Arianespace has decided to postpone the next Ariane 5 launch, initially scheduled for Wednesday December 10th, because of logistics difficulties in French Guiana. Photo: HOT BIRD™ 9 starts its integration with Ariane 5 launch vehicle hardware

A new launch date will be announced as soon as possible. This flight will be Arianespace’s sixth mission of 2008, and will carry two payloads for the European-based Eutelsat telecommunications operator: HOT BIRD™ 9 and W2M.