Getting Proba-3 ready for launch
by Erica Marchand
Paris, France (SPX) Nov 14, 2024
Proba-3’s Coronagraph spacecraft recently underwent a crucial ‘fit check’ with the launcher payload adapter, preparing it for its scheduled launch aboard an Indian PSLV-XL rocket on 4 December.
Arriving at the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) Satish Dhawan Space Centre earlier this month, the twin satellites completed functional testing at the SP-1B facility. This phase confirmed the spacecraft remained fully operational after their transit from Europe.
Following these tests, the Proba-3 team facilitated the transfer to the SP-2B facility for further pre-launch steps. The Coronagraph was then delicately aligned and connected to the adapter, followed by the installation of the clampband to secure the setup. Umbilical cables were fitted and tested to verify both connection and disconnection functions – critical for monitoring the spacecraft during fueling and ensuring release during launch.
The ‘fit check’ ensures that the spacecraft and adapter interface seamlessly – a necessary step for components prepared separately across the globe. Proba-3’s second satellite, the Occulter, will be stacked atop the Coronagraph for the mission.
Once launched, the Occulter will align with the Coronagraph in orbit to create an artificial solar eclipse, enabling continuous study of the Sun’s corona, the origin of solar wind and space weather.
Related Links
Proba-3 at ESA
Solar Science News at SpaceDaily
