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SMOS satellite joins launch adapter
 
14 October 2009

SMOS about to join launch adapter
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The SMOS satellite about to join the Rockot launch adapter on 10 October at the Plesetsk Cosmodrome in Russia.

Credits: ESA
 
 
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Around 70 minutes after liftoff, SMOS is released by the launch vehicle’s Breeze upper stage, placing the satellite in orbit around Earth. Shortly after separation the platform's two solar wings are deployed.

Credits: ESA - AOES Medialab
 
 
Closing the hydrazine drum after fuelling
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Closing the hydrazine drum after fuelling the SMOS satellite on 7 October.

Credits: ESA
 
 
SMOS being hoisted onto launch adapter
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The SMOS satellite being hoisted from the fuelling stand and onto the adapter that connects the satellite to the Rockot launcher. Since the satellite has already been filled with fuel, this operation is quite dangerous.

Credits: ESA
 


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