The Spaceport's S5 payload preparation facility has become the center of attention for Arianespace's upcoming Ariane 5 mission as the TerreStar-1 satellite passenger begins its pre-launch checkout process.

After being delivered to French Guiana from the United States last week, TerreStar-1 was moved into the S5 facility, where it has since undergone an initial fit-check validation with the adapter that will serve as the satellite's interface with the Ariane 5 launch vehicle. TerreStar-1 will be the largest commercial telecommunications satellite ever launched and is based on Space Systems/Loral's 1300 satellite bus. TerreStar-1 is designed to provide critical services for government, emergency responder, rural communities and commercial users.  It will use the 2 GHz spectrum to deliver voice, data and video communications to satellite/terrestrial mobile devices the size of a typical smart phone. The spacecraft will be operated by Reston, Virginia-based TerreStar Networks, which plans to offer next-generation mobile communications through a network of partners and service providers for users who need "anywhere" coverage throughout the United States and Canada. TerreStar-1 will ride as a single payload on a dedicated Ariane 5.  Liftoff is planned for the second half of June on Ariane 5's third mission of 2009.