MSG-3 mated on Ariane 5

After its transfer to BAF yesterday evening, MSG-3 was mated on the top of the Ariane 5 ECA launcher today 26/06/2012 @ at 09:34 am (CSG time). As these operations are under Arianespace responsibility, (very) few persons only form the MSG-3 launch campaign team were authorised to witness this activity.
The following pictures were taken directly form the TV monitor available in EPCU S5 but give a a rather good idea of this exciting event.
1-MSG-3 lifting to the top of the BAF

 2-Getting slowly down to the level of the PFES (Platform Elévatrice Supérieure/Upper platform). Note the large grey hose on the floor (formerly called "Boa") that will be used in BAF to cool down the batteries during charging activities.

3-Successful MSG-3 mating on the top of the Ariane 5 launcher at the level of the PFEI (PlateForme Elévatrice Inférieure/ Lower Platform).

Another view (from top with Camera#1). Both operating platfomrs can be seen (PFES and PFEI)

Activities will continue with the TAS MSG-3 team with the Spacecraft inspection and the review of the last flight and Non flight items...

Few other pictures of the same event nicely forwarde by Thales Quality Control:
MSG-3 Lifted from CCU-2located on BAF ground floor...

2

 3

4

5

6...up to the BAF Payload platforms located on the 11th floor.