2 In the foreground, the third stage of the Soyuz rocket, in the background, the first stage and the side thrusters.
3 Under the supervision of “Mrs Quality Control”!
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6 The upper composite has been transferred to the cradle.
7 This looks more like a shipyard. Quite a change from the satellite cleanrooms we are used to.
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10 July 11 morning: the upper composite (fairing containing the satellite and the Fregat stage) has arrived at the launcher integration hall (MIK 40) after a 8 hour train journey. During the day, it will be transferred from the wagon to the cradle (on the left of the picture) and then assembled to the third stage of the launcher (just beside the cradle). The first stages of the launcher can be seen at the rear left of the building.
11 Local Safety Standards apply !
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13 Very reassuring considering the 5 tons of very toxic fuel contained in Fregat and in MetOp.