Sentinel-3A satellite and Launch Vehicle Check-Outs Started
After arrival at the Rockot integration facility (MIK), the Sentinel-3A satellite was unloaded from its transport container and erected in the dedicated spacecraft clean room. On Saturday, December 5th, the satellite was powered up for the first time after a long journey marking the start of various electrical test runs.
In parallel, the Breeze-KM upper stage and the payload fairing have arrived at the MIK for extensive check-outs in preparation for a launch vehicle dry-run and eventually mating with the spacecraft.
On Monday, December 7th, the Sentinel-3A team started the propulsion system checks. During these activities, the propellant tanks are pressurized to confirm their structural integrity before the spacecraft may be fuelled.