(C19) Adaptor and Clamp Band Inspection

The Spacecraft launch adaptor was delivered in S1B and a fit check is being prepared. It will take place just before the transfer of MSG-4 to the fuelling area. The purpose is to demonstrate the full mechanical compatibility of the spacecraft with this interface device which in fact belongs the the launcher. Thorough inspections were performed to check integrity and cleanliness of the contact areas of this adaptor with MSG-4.

 

 A ThalesAleniaSpace Quality inspector checking the interface of the flight adaptor

The part inspected below is another essential element called the clamp band. The role of the clamp band is to bind the spacecraft on the rocket adaptor. A dedicated pyro device will release the clamp band at the very end of the launcher mission. At this very moment,  the MSG-4 spacecraft will  start its own "life" in space.

An ArianeSpace quality responsible inspecting the flight clamp band that will be used for the VA-224

In parallel to this activity, a simulation of the count down procedure is performed today (03/06) with all teams involved on the spacecraft side. In addition to Thales, ESA and EUMETSAT teams which are located in the S1B LBC control rooms, this dry run exercise introduces a new comer, the ESOC team in Darmstadt Germany, responsible for the Spacecraft operations.

Last but not least to be mentioned: A dedicated review called Pre-fulleing Review was successfully held yesterday (02/06) confirming the readiness of the MSG-4 spacecraft for the transfer to the fuelling area in S5B on next Friday (05/06).