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Testing CRISTAL’s solar panel deployment
26 OCT. 2026 publication date 17 Views

With its solar arrays integrated and key qualification reviews under way, Europe’s new ice-monitoring satellite, CRISTAL, is moving from assembly into the demanding test phase that will demonstrate its readiness for the rigours of launch and life in orbit. The photograph shows engineers at Airbus’ facilities in Germany testing the solar panel deployment mechanism, which is essential to ensure these panels deploy correctly and provide the power needed to operate the satellite throughout its mission.

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Airbus Defence and Space

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No ESA licences available

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Testing CRISTAL on its launch adapter

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