For the trip from Toulouse to French Guiana, the SPOT 4 satellite is split into major subassemblies which are then packed into special transport containers. Various items of special equipment are also packed into special containers and shipped to French Guiana, most importantly items required for re-assembly and final testing (especially tests to ensure that the subassemblies have been correctly re-assembled and aligned).

The full consignment weighs 70 metric tons, including 30 or so for the containers and packing materials compared with just 2.8 for the satellite proper.

The containers were flown from Toulouse-Blagnac to Cayenne-Rochambeau by a fully loaded Antonov 124 giant cargo aircraft plus a conventional charter aircraft.

At Cayenne, the containers were unloaded during the night cool then transferred by special road convoy to Kourou, and the Guiana Space Centre.

The launch campaign, lasting 37 days, is divided into three phases, each taking place in a different part of the space centre. Everything runs to a strict schedule.

First phase, "S1"

This phase is termed "S1" because it takes place in building S1B, part of the Arianespace payload preparation complex. This facility is designed for satellite re-assembly and electrical testing.

In parallel with these operations, the satellite's hydrazine thrusters and tanks are prepared in buildings S2 and S4. These will be mounted on the satellite later on.

Second phase, "S3"

This phase is termed "S3" because it takes place in building S3B. During this phase, the hydrazine tanks are filled and pressurized, the satellite is mated with the launcher support elements, then encapsuled inside the payload fairing to form the "composite payload".

For this phase, the launcher and launch tower stand side-by-side on the launch pad. While awaiting its payload, the launcher undergoes a final series of tests.

Final phase

The final phase takes place on the launch pad at the end of the ELA2 complex. During this phase, the composite payload (satellite + fairing) is transferred to the launch pad and mated with the launcher before undergoing a final series of tests (electrical test and countdown rehearsal). Finally, the pyrotechnic circuits are armed.

All is now ready for the launch. The special ground equipment, about 65 metric tons of it, is packed in its containers and shipped back to France aboard the "Toucan".

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page updated on the 00-06-06