THE HELIOS 1A intelligence-gathering satellite was launched into polar orbit aboard an Ariane 40 booster, from Kourou, Guiana, on 7 July.
The French/Italian/Spanish satellite is part of a $2 billion programme which includes ground stations and the Helios 1B, to be launched in 1996, giving Europe its first dedicated intelligence-gathering capability (Flight International, 18-24 January). Also launched with the Helios 1A was the Cerise microsatellite built by Surrey Satellite Technology and Alcatel.
A proposed Helios 2, with higher-performance optical systems and infra-red imager, is in jeopardy. A decision by Germany on whether to join the programme is awaited.
Source: Flight International