[Satellite TODAY 04-14-10] Arianespace has set up a task force to conduct a quality audit in the wake of problems with the SES Astra 3B and ComsatBw-2 launch, the company announced April 13.
    Arianespace postponed the Ariane 5 launch, originally scheduled for March 26, twice due to the detection of an anomaly in the launch vehicle’s pressurization system. A new launch date is still yet to be given.
    The company said the task force was formed to understand and correct the anomaly occurring during the countdown on April 9, which led to the postponement of Flight 194. This task force has been asked to submit an initial report on April 16.
    The quality audit is designed to analyze the underlying reasons for the technical difficulties that occurred, and to propose corrective measures. The initial conclusions of this audit will be presented before Flight 194.
    These two initiatives will be conducted concurrently and independently of each other, Arianespace said.