Arianespace/Starsem Flight ST12, update, 26-11-2003

Arianespace/Starsem Flight ST12

November 26:  The AMOS 2 satellite undergoes its pre-launch checkout 
 
 
 
The AMOS 2 satellite has entered its final checkout phase at Starsem's modern Baikonur 
Cosmodrome payload preparation facility as the launch campaign for Starsem/Arianespace 
Flight ST12 moves ahead for a December liftoff. 

Electrical autonomous testing of the spacecraft has been completed in the Starsem 
Payload Processing Facility at Baikonur Cosmodrome. 

The satellite was then moved to Starsem's Hazardous Processing Facility to complete 
the checking of its Unified Propulsion System, and to undergo pressurization 
validations. 

All these tests were completed successfully, authorizing the beginning of filling 
activities. 

In parallel with the activity on AMOS 2, the three stages for Starsem's Soyuz launch 
vehicle are now at the Cosmodrome as well, and are entering their preparation phase in 
the assembly/integration building (MIK 40). 

The Fregat upper stage to be used for Flight ST12 was delivered to Baikonur on 
November 26 aboard an An-124 cargo jet, and has started its autonomous preparation. 

Flight ST12 is a joint Arianespace/Starsem effort that results from the two companies' 
launcher family policy developed to best meet their clients' needs. 

AMOS 2 originally was slated for launch aboard an Arianespace Ariane 5, but was 
rescheduled for the Starsem Soyuz-Fregat flight in agreement with the satellite's 
operator, Spacecom Ltd. 

Liftoff of Flight ST12 is targeted for the second half of December. 

AMOS 2 will have a liftoff mass of 1,370 kg., and is to be positioned at an orbital 
slot of 4 deg. West, over the Gulf of Guinea. 

The satellite's payload of 22 Ku-band transponders will provide the distribution of 
digital TV channels and business data for private/public networks.  


Jacques :-)

Editor: www.spacepatches.info