Post by Chicago Astronomer - Astro Joe on Jul 14, 2005 1:17:31 GMT -6
Atlas V Campaign Continues For Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter Launch Sept 11
Cape Canaveral FL (SPX) Jul 14, 2005
The Launch Vehicle Readiness Test continues for the Atlas V 401 launch vehicle that will be use to send the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter to Mars. A countdown wet dress rehearsal with the launch vehicle fully fueled was completed July 7.
Power-on testing continues to go well. Solar arrays are to be deployed, inspected and stowed for launch. The Centaur upper stage for the Atlas V is at the Vertical Integration Facility (VIF) at SLC-41. It was hoisted atop the Atlas stage to begin checkout.
Spacecraft fueling is scheduled for July 18. A spin test to ensure balance of the spacecraft will be completed by July 20.
The MRO will be transported from the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility to the VIF in late July. It will join the Atlas V for the final phase of launch preparations.
Also to be launched September 11, will be two earth observation satellites CALIPSO and CloudSat. Using a Boeing Delta II the twin birds will be launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California.
CloudSat completed battery reconditioning June 27. The second stage of the Delta II vehicle is planned to be hoisted atop the interstage Thursday. Processing of the CALIPSO spacecraft is complete.
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It's an armada at Mars now. Something in particular we looking for?