ESA - Observing the Earth - SMOS satellite joins launch adapter

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SMOS satellite joins launch adapter

14 October 2009

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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

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Closing the hydrazine drum after fuelling

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Closing the hydrazine drum after fuelling the SMOS satellite on 7 October.

Credits: ESA

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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

SMOS launch