Awaiting shutdown of the main cryogenic stage. Payload fairing jettison has been confirmed. All systems are continuing to function perfectly. Vehicle has already passed thru region of maximum dynamic pressure. The Ariane 5 has lifted off from Kourou, French Guiana.
Propellants tanks are at flight pressure.
No issues are being worked with the Ariane 5 or the two spacecraft. The launcher first climbs vertically for 5 seconds, then rotates towards the East. It maintains an attitude that ensures the axis of the launcher remains parallel to its velocity vector, in order to minimize aerodynamic loads throughout the entire atmospheric phase, until the solid boosters are jettisoned. The main stage falls back off the coast of the Galapagos Islands in the Pacific Ocean. The 'Go for Launch' authorization has been received, clearing the way for the start of the synchronized launch sequence at T-minus 7 minutes.