Part 2: 27 June - 1 July
Monday 27 June
The main set of Electrical Ground Support Equipment (EGSE) has been validated, so now we can switch on the spacecraft and do the safety test. This test is required by the Centre Spatial Guyanais (CSG) Safety rules, to demonstrate that the tanks of the spacecraft are leak tight.
We also take this opportunity to fill the helium tanks to 50% resulting in a pressure of 133 bar. For this hazardous activity some blast shields have been installed in the clean room around the spacecraft to protect the operators and EGSE.
Tuesday 28 June
The hazardous activity, tank pressurisation and depressurisation has been performed successfully and the coordination with the CSG-Safety Officer (necessary to start any hazardous activity) has been perfectly synchronised. By the the end of day, the preliminary tests results are successful and the go ahead is given for the next activities.
During these activities a Safety exercise was performed by CSG. Despite the interruption of work caused by this (of course the team performed safety procedures flawlessly), the preparations are on schedule.
Wednesday 29 June
EGSE validation has been finalised. The Mission Communication Payload tests have started. The Network Data Interface Unit set-up and connection has started.
Thursday 30 June
The Solar Array Panel (SAP) inspection on bench has started. The eight panels of MSG-2 and two spare panels will be checked. The Mission Communication Payload tests have been finalised without problems.
Friday 01 July
Telemetry, Tracking and Telecommand tests are completed without problems. A key point was to verify that all planned activities are completed, and give the go-head for the next step, the unlocking of the SEVIRI scan mirror.
The main event of the day was the Videoconference with Arianespace. Although somewhat anticipated, the result is nevertheless disappointing for the team. Due to additional analysis on EPS (Storable Propellant Stage) cone qualification with regard to the launch configuration (high localised loads) and other launch priorities MSG-2 is now scheduled to be launched towards the end of 2005.
