Data glitch halts satellite launch

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The launch of the Telesat Anik F2 satellite has been postponed, due to an anomalous data check. Arianespace has not yet announced a new launch date. The satellite was to provide Broadband connectivity to much of the North American continent, including distance learning and e-health services.

It was due to take off from French Guiana this morning (14/7/04) on the Ariane 5 rocket launcher. A statement on Arianespace's website says that the anomaly was detected during the final stages of the countdown operation. The launcher will now be moved back into its Final Assembly Building for repairs.

Ariane 5 has been dogged by reliability questions ever since a launch in late 2002 resulted in the rocket self-destructing four minutes into the flight.