Safety first: preparing to fuel Sentinel-1D

The Copernicus Sentinel-1D satellite has been fuelled in Europe’s Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, completing another step on its preparation for liftoff on Ariane 6.

The propulsion team specialists from Thales Alenia Space Italy have performed the critical and hazardous task of fuelling the satellite. To carry out this risky process, special SCAPE suits (Self Contained Atmospheric Protection Ensemble) that protect against the toxic and explosive characteristics of hydrazine are worn.

Together with its sibling Sentinel-1C, Sentinel-1D will significantly enhance the capabilities of the Copernicus Earth observation programme.

The mission will continue to deliver radar images of Earth’s surface, performing in all weathers, day-and-night, providing a service vital for users who depend on frequent updates of critical data, such as disaster response teams, environmental agencies, maritime authorities and climate scientists.

Read full story: Sentinel-1D fuelled and ready for encapsulation