LIVE: Soyuz ST-B Flight VS08 - O3b-F2 (FM3/6/7/8) - July 10th, 2014

[beidou]

LIVE Processing and launch coverage.

All Launch Coverage Sponsored by ATK:

[jacqmans]

Satellites are delivered for Arianespace’s next Soyuz mission with O3b Networks

August 7, 2013 – Soyuz Flight VS06

O3b Networks satellites for Arianespace’s next launch to help “bridge the digital divide” are now in French Guiana as the pace accelerates for this Soyuz mission from the Spaceport, which is targeted for late September.

The spacecraft – built by Thales Alenia Space – arrived this morning aboard a chartered Ilyushin IL-76 cargo jetliner that landed at Félix Eboué Airport near the capital city of Cayenne, followed by their transfer via road to the Spaceport’s S5 payload preparation facility.

They will be readied for the upcoming Arianespace Soyuz launch, designated Flight VS06 in the company’s launcher family numbering system, which signifies the sixth liftoff of the medium-lift workhorse from French Guiana.

As preparations begin with O3b Networks’ satellites, the launcher for Flight VS06 is taking shape across the Spaceport in the MIK launcher integration building – located within the Soyuz ELS launch site near the town of Sinnamary.

Flight VS06 will be the second Soyuz mission for O3b Networks, following Arianespace’s June 25 orbiting of the initial four satellites.  It provided the first step in O3b Networks’ creation of a space-based constellation to deliver telecommunications and Internet services over Asia, Africa, South America, Australia and the Middle East – combining the global reach of satellite coverage with the speed of a fiber-optic network.

http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2013/1081.asp

[Jester]

it was a bit rainy that day.....

[Jester]

FM8 arrival end of August.

[Jester]

One of 4 O3b-F2 satellites in S5C

[anik]

Interfax reports about one-month delay of launch due to unreadiness of satellites: http://www.interfax.ru/news.asp?id=327405

[anik]

As per http://novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/forum/messages/forum12/topic13667/message1122692/#message1122692, there are problems with four launched satellites, so it was decided to return new four satellites to Thales Alenia Space and the launch will be after Gaia, so delay is much more than month.

[Nicolas PILLET]

I hope this situation is less serious than the one with Globalstar-2 satellites !!

[Jester]

As per http://novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/forum/messages/forum12/topic13667/message1122692/#message1122692, there are problems with four launched satellites, so it was decided to return new four satellites to Thales Alenia Space and the launch will be after Gaia, so delay is much more than month.

My russian is rusty, what is the issue ? spacecraft propellant leak ?

[anik]

what is the issue ? spacecraft propellant leak ?

There is no info about type of problem there.

[Danderman]

I hope this situation is less serious than the one with Globalstar-2 satellites !!

Or the Globalstar-1 satellites!

[Jester]

ok, so 4 sats going back to TAS, given the fact that software patch was available and the hardware was adjusted after the globalstar reaction control wheel issue, i'm wondering what the issue is....

[anik]

A delay for Arianespace’s second Soyuz mission with O3b Networks satellites
September 9, 2013

http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2013/1096.asp

O3b Networks today announced a delay in the launch of its next four satellites to allow time for further testing. Originally planned for a September 30 liftoff on an Arianespace Soyuz flight from the Spaceport in French Guiana, the new date – anticipated for the first quarter of 2014 – will be confirmed in due course.

http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2013/9-9-2013-Euroconsult.asp

Among the upcoming launches in 2013, our customer O3b has decided to carry out additional tests on its satellites, which means that the second launch for the O3b constellation has been postponed for the moment.

[beidou]

Does this mean there will be chances for Galileo to be launched by the end of this year?

[Galactic Penguin SST]

Does this mean there will be chances for Galileo to be launched by the end of this year?

Nope, I think the satellites aren't ready for launch yet.

[Jester]

this reshuffle has an impact, there might still be a chance but I doubt it, big meeting in October....

[Jester]

P.S.
Are we sure about the renaming of VS07 to VS06 btw ?

[Jester]

P.S.
Are we sure about the renaming of VS07 to VS06 btw ?

Per Gaia QA, the name remains VS07 so no change.

O3b remain VS06

[Stan Black]

P.S.
Are we sure about the renaming of VS07 to VS06 btw ?

Per Gaia QA, the name remains VS07 so no change.

O3b remain VS06

What about the rocket?

[Jester]

P.S.
Are we sure about the renaming of VS07 to VS06 btw ?

Per Gaia QA, the name remains VS07 so no change.

O3b remain VS06

What about the rocket?

I dont think they will change it, no reason, unless there is further delay and another customer uses/needs it

[Salo]

P.S.
Are we sure about the renaming of VS07 to VS06 btw ?

Per Gaia QA, the name remains VS07 so no change.

O3b remain VS06

O'key!

[Salo]

Arianespace’s mission with Gaia will be the Spaceport’s second liftoff with the Russian workhorse launcher in 2013.  It is now designated Flight VS06, taking the numbering previously assigned to an upcoming Soyuz launch with four O3b Network satellites – which has been delayed at the customer’s request.

http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2013/1097.asp

[Lewis007]

New launchdate possibly in March
http://www.spacenews.com/article/satellite-telecom/37953delayed-o3b-satellites-should-be-ready-for-march-launch

[Galactic Penguin SST]

Apparently SES, who is one of the shareholders behind O3b, is trying to push Arianespace to give the June 2014 Soyuz launch slot to them, instead of the first 2 Galileo navigation satellites, by threatening to cut the remaining launch deals of SES comsats with Arianespace. Yikes!

http://www.spacenews.com/article/launch-report/39868ses-leans-on-arianespace-to-give-galileo-launch-slot-to-o3b

[Jester]

Apparently SES, who is one of the shareholders behind O3b, is trying to push Arianespace to give the June 2014 Soyuz launch slot to them, instead of the first 2 Galileo navigation satellites, by threatening to cut the remaining launch deals of SES comsats with Arianespace. Yikes!

http://www.spacenews.com/article/launch-report/39868ses-leans-on-arianespace-to-give-galileo-launch-slot-to-o3b

Yeah, its all politics, can't say much more, but it's "interesting"

[npuentes]

Strategically (i.e., won't address current problem) it seems Arianespace needs to figure out how to have more launchers on hand and a greater and more flexible launch cadence. I'm sure there are many factors, however.

[Jester]

Strategically (i.e., won't address current problem) it seems Arianespace needs to figure out how to have more launchers on hand and a greater and more flexible launch cadence. I'm sure there are many factors, however.

They have the launchers, the issue is the frequency they can launch at, they are addressing the Soyuz part by building an extra fueling location, and optimizing the launch ops timeline, this will cut down on time between launches etc. but the issue really is down to customers and spacecraft availability and the politics behind it....

currently it looks like we will both show up with our spacecrafts and see who will get the launcher, which means somebody paying more because of the delay and Arianespace paying a penalty because of made agreements.

[woods170]

Strategically (i.e., won't address current problem) it seems Arianespace needs to figure out how to have more launchers on hand and a greater and more flexible launch cadence. I'm sure there are many factors, however.

They have the launchers, the issue is the frequency they can launch at, they are addressing the Soyuz part by building an extra fueling location, and optimizing the launch ops timeline, this will cut down on time between launches etc. but the issue really is down to customers and spacecraft availability and the politics behind it....

currently it looks like we will both show up with our spacecrafts and see who will get the launcher, which means somebody paying more because of the delay and Arianespace paying a penalty because of made agreements.

The last time a constitual payload was fighting it out over a launch slot with a commercial payload it was the constitual payload that lost. That did not go down too well with ESA. IMO, I don't think in this case ESA and the European Commission are going to let this happen again. The launch slot will very likely go to Galileo.  Trying to appease SES by giving them the slot will only result in SES walking away towards a certain competitor in the USA just one launch later.

[Jester]

Strategically (i.e., won't address current problem) it seems Arianespace needs to figure out how to have more launchers on hand and a greater and more flexible launch cadence. I'm sure there are many factors, however.

They have the launchers, the issue is the frequency they can launch at, they are addressing the Soyuz part by building an extra fueling location, and optimizing the launch ops timeline, this will cut down on time between launches etc. but the issue really is down to customers and spacecraft availability and the politics behind it....

currently it looks like we will both show up with our spacecrafts and see who will get the launcher, which means somebody paying more because of the delay and Arianespace paying a penalty because of made agreements.

The last time a constitual payload was fighting it out over a launch slot with a commercial payload it was the constitual payload that lost. That did not go down too well with ESA. IMO, I don't think in this case ESA and the European Commission are going to let this happen again. The launch slot will very likely go to Galileo.  Trying to appease SES by giving them the slot will only result in SES walking away towards a certain competitor in the USA just one launch later.

That depends on the deal, if Arianespace gives the slot to O3b, I'm pretty sure this will come in exchange for more SES launches via Arianespace and not the US provider or else whats the point in giving them the slot in the first place...

Then again, Tajani clearly stated first Galileo FOC launch in June, so lets see who "wins" .....

[baldusi]

Can that certain US competitor put the O3b at it's quite equatorial plane?

[Stan Black]

Is Sea Launch still an option?

[anik]

Peter B. de Selding ‏@pbdes

O3b v. Galileo re: June Soyuz slot: If ALL 4 O3b sats arrive at spaceport weeks before the 2 Galileo sats, THEN O3b shld have priority.

[Jester]

Peter B. de Selding ‏@pbdes

O3b v. Galileo re: June Soyuz slot: If ALL 4 O3b sats arrive at spaceport weeks before the 2 Galileo sats, THEN O3b shld have priority.

The question is how many weeks.....

[Galactic Penguin SST]

Did Galileo just lost to O3b? 

The satellites will soon be transported from the Thales Alenia Space facility in Rome to Kourou, to be launched in the first week of June, pending final confirmation from Arianespace, the launch provider. Following the launch and with four more satellites in-orbit, O3b will start commercial service for all O3b customers on a global basis.

http://www.satelliteprome.com/news/o3b-satellites-get-ready-for-lift-off/

[Jester]

Did Galileo just lost to O3b? 

The satellites will soon be transported from the Thales Alenia Space facility in Rome to Kourou, to be launched in the first week of June, pending final confirmation from Arianespace, the launch provider. Following the launch and with four more satellites in-orbit, O3b will start commercial service for all O3b customers on a global basis.

http://www.satelliteprome.com/news/o3b-satellites-get-ready-for-lift-off/

I call B.S. as I'm not aware of a launch slot in the first week of June.

again, it should be clear who will get the slot end of this week/beginning of next week.

[Galactic Penguin SST]

Looks like O3b won the fight!  Andrey (anik) reporting a new launch date of June 27 on NK.

EDIT: probably because the Galileo satellites aren't ready: http://www.spacenews.com/article/launch-report/40118galileo-delay-could-save-arianespace-from-difficult-decision

[Galactic Penguin SST]

I guess the fight for launch slots is now all but finished with the O3b satellites now being transported to CSG on an An-124?  http://www.o3bnetworks.com/3046

[Jester]

They should arrive today, then again, Galileo team is already in CSG since 1 week with EGSE and MGSE.
as indicated on the other thread, o3b will get the slot, as long as there is no issue ;-)


EDIT:
And they have arrived

[jacqmans]

The second cluster of O3b Networks satellites are welcomed in French Guiana for their Arianespace Soyuz launch

 April 28, 2014 – Soyuz Flight VS08

O3b Networks spacecraft for Arianespace’s next launch to help “bridge the digital divide” have been delivered to French Guiana, marking a key step in preparations for this upcoming Soyuz mission from the Spaceport.

The four satellites arrived this month aboard a chartered Antonov An-124 cargo jetliner that landed at Félix Eboué Airport near the capital city of Cayenne, and were transferred by road to the Spaceport’s S5 payload preparation facility – where pre-launch processing is to commence.

This next Soyuz mission is designated Flight VS08 in Arianespace’s launcher family numbering system, signifying the eighth liftoff of the medium-lift workhorse from French Guiana since its 2011 introduction.

The launch follows Arianespace’s June 2013 orbiting of the initial four O3b satellites, which were produced by Thales Alenia Space and provided the first step in O3b Networks’ creation of a space-based constellation to deliver telecommunications and Internet services over Asia, Africa, South America, Australia and the Middle East.

Using the constellation of satellites to be lofted by Arianespace, O3b Networks’ strategy is to provide billions of consumers and businesses in nearly 180 countries with low-cost, high-speed, low latency Internet and mobile connectivity.

http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2014/1162.asp

[bolun]

Pre-launch processing begins for the O3b Networks satellites to be orbited on Arianespace’s upcoming Soyuz flight

May 6, 2014 – Soyuz Flight VS08

The next four satellites to serve O3b Networks in providing emerging market connectivity worldwide have entered their checkout phase at the Spaceport in French Guiana, readying them for launch on an Arianespace Soyuz mission planned for late June/early July.

These spacecraft are now inside the Spaceport’s S1B clean room facility, and are being removed from the individual shipping containers that protected them during a trans-Atlantic cargo jetliner flight from Europe to the equatorial launch site.

The O3b Networks satellites were produced by Thales Alenia Space, and have a trapezoidal-shaped main body to facilitate their integration on the Soyuz vehicle’s payload dispenser system. Outfitted with Ka-band transponders, the four spacecraft are to be positioned after launch at a medium-orbit altitude of 8,062 km.

This upcoming Soyuz mission is designated Flight VS08 in Arianespace’s launcher family numbering system, signifying the eighth liftoff of the medium-lift workhorse from the Spaceport since its 2011 introduction at French Guiana.

Arianespace orbited the initial four O3b Networks satellites on another Soyuz mission performed in June 2013. It marked the first step in O3b Networks’ creation of a space-based constellation to provide billions of consumers and businesses in nearly 180 countries with low-cost, high-speed, low latency Internet and mobile connectivity – delivering services over Asia, Africa, South America, Australia and the Middle East.

Soyuz is part of Arianespace’s three-member launcher family, which also includes the heavy-lift Ariane 5 and lightweight Vega – which also are operated at the Spaceport.

http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2014/1167.asp

[Jester]

Updated the title, as for O3b-F2 the following S/C will be launched:

FM03 / FM06 / FM07 / FM08

VS05/O3b-F1 launched PFM / FM02 / FM04 / FM05

[Jester]

http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2014/6-5-2014-VS08-launch-date.asp

PRESS RELEASE / FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 5, 2014

Arianespace will send four more satellites from the O3b constellation into a
circular orbit at an altitude of 7,830 km with the eighth Soyuz launch from
the Guiana Space Center in French Guiana.

Liftoff of the Soyuz ST-B launcher is now scheduled for Thursday July 10:

•  at 03:55:56 p.m., local time in French Guiana,
•  at 02:55:56 p.m. in Washington DC,
•  at 18:55:56 UTC,
•  at 08:55:56 p.m. in Paris,
•  at 10:55:56 p.m. in Moscow.

Follow Arianespace's launch activity at: www.arianespace.com.

[Galactic Penguin SST]

Payload fueling begins for Arianespace’s Soyuz flight with the next four O3b Networks satellites

June 16, 2014 – Soyuz Flight VS08

The upcoming Arianespace Soyuz mission for O3b Networks has entered its next phase of preparations, as fueling is now underway in French Guiana with this global satellite service provider’s second batch of spacecraft – which will deliver connectivity to emerging markets worldwide.

Fueling of these four satellites, which is taking place inside the Spaceport’s S5 payload preparation building, will be completed in separate processes – clearing the way for integration on a dispenser system that will deploy each during Arianespace’s July 10 flight with its workhorse Soyuz launcher.

Thales Alenia Space produced the O3b Networks spacecraft, which have a trapezoidal-shaped main body to facilitate their installation on the Soyuz dispenser.  Equipped with Ka-band transponders, the satellites are to be positioned after launch at a medium-orbit altitude of 8,062 km.

O3b Networks’ initial four satellites were orbited on another Arianespace Soyuz mission performed in June 2013. It marked the first step in O3b Networks’ creation of a space-based constellation to provide billions of consumers and businesses in nearly 180 countries with low-cost, high-speed, low latency Internet and mobile connectivity – delivering services over Asia, Africa, South America, Australia and the Middle East.

The approaching July 10 mission is designated Flight VS08 in Arianespace’s launcher family numbering system, signifying the eighth liftoff of the medium-lift Soyuz from the Spaceport since its 2011 introduction at French Guiana.

http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2014/1174.asp

[Lewis007]

VS-08 poster from the Kourou space center

[Galactic Penguin SST]

The O3b Networks payload “cluster” takes form for Arianespace’s upcoming Soyuz launch

June 19, 2014 – Soyuz Flight VS08

Payload integration is underway for the four O3b Networks connectivity satellites to be orbited by Arianespace on its next Soyuz mission, scheduled for liftoff on July 10 from the Spaceport in French Guiana.

This integration involves a step-by-step installation of the spacecraft on a tube-shaped dispenser system, with the activity taking place inside the Spaceport’s S5 payload preparation facility.

The dispenser will release O3b Networks’ four satellites into a medium-altitude Earth orbit during the mission, enabling these platforms to join the company’s initial batch of connectivity spacecraft lofted by Arianespace aboard another Soyuz in June 2013.

Thales Alenia Space produced the Ka-band relay platforms, which have a liftoff mass of approximately 700 kg. each and will create a constellation providing telecommunications and Internet services over Asia, Africa, South America, Australia and the Middle East – combining the global reach of satellite coverage with the speed of a fiber-optic network.

The July 10 flight will be Arianespace’s eighth mission from French Guiana with its workhorse medium-lift Soyuz, and carries the VS08 designation in the company’s launcher family numbering system.  Soyuz joins Arianespace’s other two launchers in service at the Spaceport: the heavy-lift Ariane 5, and lightweight Vega.

http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2014/1175.asp

[jacqmans]

27 June 2014
 
Fuel Up Complete!

In just two weeks O3b's second set of birds will launch from Kourou, French Guiana. We have successfully completed the fuelling phase of the launch campaign. Satellite FM6 was the last of the four satellites to be fuelled. Now complete, this marks the end of the launch campaign’s fuelling phase. The final satellite is now being prepared for mating to the dispenser.

At this end of the week, we will enter the final stretch of the launch campaign, know as the Combined Operations phase (POC).

This phase will take 10 days and consists of moving the satellite / dispenser from the Hazardous Processing Facility (HPF / S5A) to the S3B building on D minus 7 (Launch Day minus 7 days).  Here the satellite / dispenser will be mated to the FREGAT (Soyuz upper stage) and then encapsulated (Fairing Integration) on D minus 5.  The Upper Composite (satellites / dispenser / FREGAT) will then be transferred to the launch pad / ZLS and hoisted on top of the launcher on D minus 3.  After final checkouts, the satellites will be ready to be launched on D0 (Day of Launch).

[jacqmans]

O3b’s satellite cluster receives its orbital “kick” for the upcoming Arianespace Soyuz launch

 July 2, 2014 – Soyuz Flight VS08

The next satellite cluster for O3b Networks’ affordable, high-speed connectivity system has been mated to its Fregat upper stage in French Guiana, marking one of the final steps in Arianespace’s Soyuz launch campaign for a liftoff next week from the Spaceport.

During operations in the Spaceport’s S3B payload preparation facility, the four satellites – which previously were integrated on their tube-shaped dispenser system – have been mated atop Soyuz’ Fregat upper stage. The highly flexible Fregat stage will perform multiple burns during Arianespace’s July 10 flight, deploying the spacecraft into orbit.

This week’s mating operation with Fregat will be followed by Soyuz’ subsequent rollout to the ELS launch complex near the French Guiana town of Sinnamary, allowing the satellite payload to be installed on the medium-lift workhorse launcher.

The July 10 mission, designated Flight VS08 in Arianespace’s launcher family numbering system, will be the eighth with Soyuz since the vehicle’s 2011 introduction at the Spaceport – joining the company’s heavy-lift Ariane 5 and lightweight Vega.

Flight VS08 will be the second Arianespace mission at the service of O3b Networks, following the orbiting of its initial four satellites with Soyuz in June 2013.

O3b Networks’ Ka-band relay platforms will create a satellite constellation for telecommunications and Internet services that combine high speed and affordable costs for billions of people across the world who do not yet have adequate internet access.  Thales Alenia Space produced the spacecraft, which have a liftoff mass of approximately 700 kg. each.

http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2014/1177.asp

[Galactic Penguin SST]

[Jester]

Salut Thierry

[Jester]

Launch Kit

[Artyom.]

Soyuz rolls out to the launch zone for Arianespace’s July 10 mission at the service of O3b Networks


The Soyuz for Arianespace’s next medium-lift mission has arrived at the launch zone in French Guiana, where it stands ready to receive the four satellite passengers that will join O3b Networks’ pioneering high-speed connectivity system.

Applying procedures that have been followed since the workhorse Soyuz launcher inaugurated the space age, the basic three-stage vehicle for Arianespace’s July 10 flight emerged this morning from its integration building in the Spaceport’s northwestern sector.

Soyuz subsequently was moved on a transporter/erector rail car to the ZLS launch zone using the familiar horizontal transfer process – followed by its erection to the vertical orientation and positioning over the launch pad, suspended in place by four large support arms.

With this step completed, all was ready for the purpose-built 53-meter-tall mobile gantry to be moved into position around the launcher, providing a protected environment for installation of the “upper composite” – which consists of the four O3b Networks spacecraft, the Fregat upper stage and the ST-type payload fairing.

Arianespace’s July 10 flight is scheduled to lift off precisely at 3:55:56 p.m. local time in French Guiana, with its satellite passengers to be deployed during a flight lasting 2 hrs., 22 min.  Total payload lift performance is estimated at 3,204 kg., which includes a combined mass of approximately 2,800 kg. for the four spacecraft.

These O3b Networks Ka-band relay platforms – which were produced by Thales Alenia Space – will create a satellite constellation for telecommunications and Internet services that combine high speed and affordable costs for billions of people across the world who do not yet have adequate internet access.

This week’s launch will mark Arianespace’s eighth Soyuz mission from the Spaceport since this workhorse vehicle’s French Guiana service entry in October 2011, as well as the company’s second mission at the service of O3b Networks – following the orbiting of its initial four satellites with Soyuz in June 2013.

http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2014/1179.asp

[bolun]

Launch window for VS08

- UTC: At 18:55:56 on July 10, 2014
 
- Kourou, French Guiana: At 03:55:56 p.m. on July 10, 2014 
 
- Paris, France: At 08:55:56 p.m. on July 10, 2014
 
- Washington, D.C.: At 02:55:56 p.m. on July 10, 2014
 
- Moscow, Russia: At 10:55:56 p.m. on July 10, 2014

http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2014/1179.asp

[Artyom.]

[Galactic Penguin SST]

O3b Networks’ four satellites are integrated on Soyuz for Arianespace’s July 10 mission

July 8, 2014 – Soyuz Flight VS08

Arianespace’s next medium-lift Soyuz to be launched from French Guiana is now complete following the integration of its “upper composite,” made up of four O3b Networks connectivity satellites, their protective payload fairing and the Fregat upper stage.

This activity was performed at the Spaceport’s ZLS launch complex near the town of Sinnamary. It began with the upper composite’s transfer from the S3B payload preparation facility on a special transporter, and was followed by hoisting to the upper level of a purpose-built mobile gantry – which provides a protected environment for the vertical installation.

Final checkout of the Soyuz launcher is now underway, leading up to the Arianespace liftoff planned on Thursday, July 10 at precisely 03:55:56 p.m. local time in French Guiana. This mission is designated Flight VS08 in the company’s numbering system, representing the workhorse Soyuz’ eighth flight from French Guiana.

The upcoming launch’s payload – four Thales Alenia Space-produced satellites that will join O3b Networks’ pioneering high-speed connectivity system – are to be deployed during a flight lasting 2 hrs., 22 min. Equipped with Ka-band transponders, the satellites will be positioned at a medium-orbit altitude of 8,062 km.

Total payload lift performance is estimated at 3,204 kg., including a combined mass of approximately 2,800 kg. for the four spacecraft – which will create a constellation providing telecommunications and Internet services over Asia, Africa, South America, Australia and the Middle East, combining the global reach of satellite coverage with the speed of a fiber-optic network.

Flight VS08 will be the second Arianespace mission at the service of O3b Networks, following the orbiting of its initial four satellites with Soyuz in June 2013.

http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2014/1180.asp

[jacqmans]

Soyuz is a “go” for Arianespace’s launch to complete O3b Networks’ basic satellite network
 

 July 9, 2014 – Soyuz Flight VS08


Arianespace’s second Soyuz launch at the service of O3b Networks has been approved for liftoff tomorrow from the Spaceport in French Guiana on a flight to complete the basic satellite constellation for this customer’s pioneering connectivity service.

The medium-lift mission will loft four relay spacecraft that are to join an initial four orbited by Arianespace on a Soyuz launch in June 2013.  These eight satellites will constitute the network framework to provide fast, flexible and affordable connectivity for O3b Networks customers in emerging markets.

Today’s go-ahead for Flight VS08 was given following the readiness review, a regular milestone before every Arianespace mission, which validated the go-status of Soyuz and its satellite payload, along with the Spaceport’s launch site infrastructure and the ground stations that will track the mission.

After deployment by Soyuz, the four Thales Alenia Space-produced satellites – each with a liftoff mass of approximately 700 kg. – will be located at a medium-orbit altitude of 8,062 km.

Tomorrow’s mission will be the eighth flight by Arianespace’s medium-lift Soyuz from the Spaceport, where it was introduced in 2011 to join the company’s heavy-lift Ariane 5 and lightweight Vega.

http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2014/1181.asp

[Chris Bergin]

Moved for live coverage.

[Galactic Penguin SST]

O3b Networks on Bloomberg: http://www.bloomberg.com/video/how-o3b-plans-to-connect-everyone-to-the-internet-uGNx5pZMTqOj~NYEZHEr_w.html

[Prober]

O3b Networks on Bloomberg: http://www.bloomberg.com/video/how-o3b-plans-to-connect-everyone-to-the-internet-uGNx5pZMTqOj~NYEZHEr_w.html

MEO gives these sats a life of?

[Chris Bergin]

Launch preview, mainly thanks to William Graham:

http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2014/07/arianespace-soyuz-st-b-launch-four-o3b-satellites/

[Chris Bergin]

[jacqmans]

10 July 2014

LAUNCH DAY: Just hours away from lift off and counting…

O3b's launch day chronology is in full swing here in French Guiana. O3b's second launch was officially approved for liftoff yesterday from the Spaceport here in French Guiana. The go-head for Flight VS08 was given following the standard procedure launch readiness review between Arianespace, CNES, the Russian partners and O3b.

Today at 5:00 am local Kourou time, the satellites were switched on and the Soyuz team began the preparation for launch. At lift-off minus 5 hours and 3 minutes, the Launch team conducted the key point meeting for fuelling the Soyuz 3-Stage rocket and all conditions, including weather are Green to proceed with fuelling.

The next key milestone will occur at lift-off minus 1 hr and 45 min when the fuelling is complete and the decision will be made to switch to the lift-off ventilation configuration.

The O3b satellites and the Soyuz 3-Stage is READY for launch.

[Chris Bergin]

Oh thank goodness she's shut up saying what soundtrack this is!

[Chris Bergin]

Mr. Israel.

[jacqmans]

O3b Networks
‏@satellites_   LAUNCH DAY: The only way is UP for this beauty. We are all counting down the minutes to liftoff. #visiontoreality pic.twitter.com/EdR83xKiJf

[Chris Bergin]

Green board.

[Chris Bergin]

There she is.

[jacqmans]

[Mapperuo]

Loooking good, Nice to get a launch webcast at last! Feels like ages.

[Chris Bergin]

A good sign.

[Chris Bergin]

English fella.

[Prober]

Well at least someone believes in a broadcast

[jacqmans]

[Chris Bergin]

Key Start.

[Chris Bergin]

T-3 mins.

[jacqmans]

[Chris Bergin]

T-2 mins.

[jacqmans]

[aga]

t-30s

[Chris Bergin]

T-30 seconds.

[Chris Bergin]

LAUNCH!!

[Chris Bergin]

[aga]

launch

[Chris Bergin]

Into the clouds.

[aga]

t+60

[Chris Bergin]

Good first stage.

[aga]

boosters sep

[Chris Bergin]

Staging!

[Chris Bergin]

[aga]

fairing sep

[Chris Bergin]

Fairing Separation.

[Chris Bergin]

"There's our four babies, folded up like butterflies."

[aga]

2-3 staging

[Chris Bergin]

All nominal so far.

[Mapperuo]

Some HD Screenies

[Star One]

"There's our four babies, folded up like butterflies."

The commentary has been rather poetic.

[aga]

3rd stage shutdown, fregat sep

[Chris Bergin]

On to Fregat.

[Chris Bergin]

Fregat burning! First burn is four minutes.

[aga]

fregat burn started

[Chris Bergin]

British Island has them.....

[Chris Bergin]

First burn complete.

8.5 min coast phase.

[aga]

2nd fregat burn

[Chris Bergin]

Really heading uphill now.

[Chris Bergin]

1hr 17 min coast phase next.

[Chris Bergin]

And there we go.....

[aga]

2nd burn complete...
long coasting phase

[Chris Bergin]

So coast phase. Time for sandwiches!

[IslandPlaya]

Good coverage and fair commentary by the lady with a nice voice.
Well done ArianeSpace so far.
 

[catdlr]

[Soyuz] Launch of Soyuz ST-B Rocket with O3b 5-6 Sats (VS-08)

Published on Jul 10, 2014
A Russian Soyuz ST-B rocket launched this evening, July 10th 2014 at 18:55 UTC from Kourou in French Guiana. The rocket carried four O3b satellites, 5, 6, 7 and 8 for O3b Networks. These satellites will join 1-4 which were launched last year in June. O3b provides satellite internet and mobile backhaul services through Ka-band transponders. This was the 8th Soyuz launch from French Guiana.

[Chris Bergin]

[Star One]

Good coverage and fair commentary by the lady with a nice voice.
Well done ArianeSpace so far.
 

I was impressed by the commentary it was very nicely done.

[aga]

it usually is... they (arianespace) have very good launch broadcasts...

[asmi]

[Soyuz] Launch of Soyuz ST-B Rocket with O3b 5-6 Sats (VS-08)

I like how he said "Podjyom" (Lift-off in Russian) at T+0

[Chris Bergin]

Should be getting the coverage back soon for the final burn.

[aga]

coverage continues

[Chris Bergin]

And we're back.

[Chris Bergin]

Final burn underway.

[aga]

burning again

[Chris Bergin]

And cut off.

[aga]

fregat cut-off

[aga]

sats 2&4 sep

[Chris Bergin]

There go the first two!

[Chris Bergin]

Uh oh. Webcast's died for me. Ok got it back.

[aga]

still working for me

[Chris Bergin]

BBQ mode.

[Chris Bergin]

Oh there was a quick fourth burn.

[aga]

4th fregat burn

[aga]

Oh there was a quick fourth burn.

yes, that was a little bit confusing... they had the orange title but no burn animation...

[aga]

sats separated...
happy people

[aga]

and separation image...

[Chris Bergin]

And there go to other two. Many congrats to all involved!

[aga]

they're having fun with the messages

congratz to all involved

[robertross]

My congrats to the teams, and many thanks for the coverage!

[Galactic Penguin SST]

Arianespace advances O3b Networks’ revolutionary vision with another Soyuz launch success

July 10, 2014 – Soyuz Flight VS08

O3b Networks’ mission to bridge the digital divide marked a significant step forward with today’s Arianespace Soyuz flight that deployed its next four satellites – which will complete the basic constellation for this customer’s pioneering connectivity service and help make the O3b vision a reality.

The launch success – which had a total payload lift performance of more than 3,200 kg. – continues the partnership between Arianespace and O3b Networks, and builds upon the on-target Soyuz mission that orbited O3b’s initial four spacecraft in June 2013.

This fruitful collaboration was highlighted by Arianespace Chairman and CEO Stéphane Israël during comments from the Spaceport’s mission control center, in which he noted O3b Networks is one of the 40 satellite operators to date that have selected Arianespace to start their business. He added: “Behind that choice, there is of course a true recognition of the reliability and availability of our launch systems.”

Soyuz is the medium-lift member of Arianespace’s launcher family operated from French Guiana, joined by the heavy-lift Ariane 5 and lightweight Vega. For today’s mission, it delivered O3b Networks’ satellites during a flight lasting 2 hours and 22 minutes – which included multiple burns of the Fregat upper stage, with the four passengers released in two phases from a dispenser system.

The latest O3b Networks connectivity satellites are equipped with Ka-band transponders. Along with the four spacecraft launched last year, they form the network framework to provide billions of consumers and businesses in nearly 180 countries with low-cost, high-speed, low-latency Internet and mobile connectivity.

O3b Networks’ satellite constellation is fully scalable to meet market demand and operates from a medium-orbit altitude of 8,062 km. From this low altitude, latency is dramatically reduced – bringing it on par with a long-haul fiber transmission. The O3b spacecraft were designed, integrated and tested by Thales Alenia Space.

With the presence of top officials in the mission control center for today’s launch, Israël also reaffirmed Arianespace’s commitment to continue delivering tailor-made launch solutions with O3b’s specific requirements.

Speaking after the satellites’ separation was confirmed, O3b Networks CEO Steve Collar thanked all those involved with the mission success – and gave a special acknowledgement to the Arianespace and Thales Alenia Space leadership in attendance. “The relationship that we have is a unique one – it’s one of partnership, one of cooperation, one of openness and one of friendship,” he added.

Arianespace continues to set the standard in launch services worldwide. With the Soyuz, Ariane 5 and Vega launchers fully operational at the Spaceport in French Guiana, it is the only launch services company capable of delivering any payload into any orbit – from the smallest spacecraft to the largest geostationary satellites, as well as satellite clusters for constellations and cargo missions to the International Space Station.

Today’s Soyuz success marked the medium-lift vehicle’s eighth flight from the Spaceport since its 2011 introduction at French Guiana, as well as the fifth Arianespace mission from this equatorial launch site in 2014 – for which a total of 12 flights are planned with Soyuz, Ariane 5 and Vega during the year.

The next mission in Arianespace’s 2014 manifest is the July 24 Ariane 5 flight that will deliver Europe’s fifth, and final, Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV) for servicing of the International Space Station. The ATV program – managed by the European Space Agency (ESA) – is part of Europe’s contribution to the International Space Station’s operation. 

http://www.arianespace.com/news-mission-update/2014/1182.asp

[jacqmans]

Arianespace launches O3b satellites on Soyuz mission
 
Kourou, July 10, 2014

On Thursday, July 10, 2014 at 3:55 pm local time in French Guiana, Arianespace successfully performed its second launch for O3b Networks, following the successful launch of the operator's first four satellites last year. With this eighth Soyuz launch from the Guiana Space Center, all successful, Arianespace proves its long-term support for new operators and helps reduce the world's digital divide.

O3b, a mission to provide low-cost, high-speed Internet access to the “other 3 billion” people on Earth

 Arianespace lofted four more satellites in the O3b constellation (the "Other 3 billion") into an equatorial orbit. Built by Thales Alenia Space as prime contractor, these four satellites will enable O3b Networks to supply broadband Internet access at moderate prices to emerging markets in Asia, Africa, Latin America, Australia and the Middle East, totaling nearly 150 countries surrounding the equator where broadband access is rarely available. Following this launch, the O3b constellation will be deployed in its initial configuration and will be fully operational.

Arianespace's partnership with O3b clearly reflects one of the company's basic values, namely making the benefits of space available to people on Earth.

Arianespace, trusted partner for new operators

 Arianespace has long supported new operators as they enter the market, by providing services tailored to their specific requirements, backed by launch systems renowned for their reliability and availability. For O3b Networks, Arianespace and partners developed a special technique to deploy these satellites into equatorial orbit, combining a dedicated multiple launch configuration and an optimized launch campaign. Furthermore, access to an export credit arrangement facilitated project financing. Arianespace is already gearing up for a third O3b launch, scheduled for the first quarter of 2015.

Arianespace, the global benchmark in launch services

 With the Ariane 5, Soyuz and Vega launchers fully operational at the Guiana Space Center in French Guiana, Arianespace is the only launch services company in the world capable of launching all payloads into all orbits, from the smallest spacecraft to the largest geostationary satellites, as well as satellite clusters for constellations and cargo missions to the International Space Station. Arianespace continues to set the standard in launch services for all operators, and guarantee independent access to space.

Shortly after the official announcement of the orbital injection of the four O3b satellites,  Stéphane Israël, Chairman and CEO of Arianespace, said: "We are very proud of our role in this outstanding project, which will reduce the digital divide by supplying broadband Internet access to populations in equatorial regions. I would like to thank O3b, a key customer for Arianespace, for continuing to place their trust in us for the second phase of constellation deployment, which transforms their innovative vision into a reality. I would also like to congratulate Thales Alenia Space for the timely availability of the satellites, and our Russian partners for the unmatched reliability of the Soyuz launcher.

I would like to thank the ground industrialists, CNES/CSG teams, and the space center staff for their efforts on this fifth successful launch of the year. Thank you to the Arianespace teams for this latest success. More than ever, this reinforces Arianespace’s position as the world leader in space transportation in the framework of an exceptional year."

O3b satellites

 The satellite constellation operated by O3b Networks Limited is injected into equatorial orbit, and will provide broadband Internet access to emerging markets in Asia, Africa, Latin America, the Pacific and the Middle East, totaling nearly 150 countries.
 O3b Networks will provide telecom operators with trunking capacity and connectivity for mobile networks at rates and response times equal to fiber-optic networks.

Placed in an equatorial orbit at an altitude of 8,062 km, these Ka-band satellites will offer low-cost, high-speed telecommunications and Internet access to the "other 3 billion" people on our planet who do not yet enjoy broadband access.
 The satellites in the O3b constellation, each weighing about 700 kg at launch, were designed, tested and integrated by Thales Alenia Space.

http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2014/7-10-2014-VS08-success.asp

[jacqmans]

O3b satellites successfully launched

O3b confirms that its four satellites have been successfully launched from French Guiana.

Le Centre Spatial Guyanais (CSG), Kourou, French Guiana: O3b confirms that its four satellites have been successfully launched from the Space Center in French Guiana.

O3b CEO Steve Collar said: “We are thrilled at the successful launch of our satellites. They will now go through a period of in-orbit testing before being fully integrated into our network as we continue to bring customers up across the world. The exciting O3b journey continues and we are already looking forward to our third launch early next year.”

Launch footage: http://bit.ly/1rZBNth

[Nicolas PILLET]

With this launch, there is no more Soyuz-ST launchers in Guyane. Do we know when the next ones should be delivered ?

[anik]

With this launch, there is no more Soyuz-ST launchers in Guyane

Soyuz-ST-B for next launch is in CSG.

[Nicolas PILLET]

Really ? When was delivery ?? I've counted eight launchers delivered :

- two on 25th November 2009, used for VS02 and VS04,
- two on 18th June 2011, used for VS01 and VS03,
- two on 2nd October 2012, used for VS05 and VS06,
- two on 19th July 2013. One of them was used for VS07, so I'd assumed that the second one has been used for VS08.

[Artyom.]

The liftoff posters:

[Lewis007]

Arianespace video of the launch broadcast

[jacqmans]

[jacqmans]

[Jester]

Stan, do we have the launcher serial for VS08 ?

Е15000-005?

[Nicolas PILLET]

Stan, do we have the launcher serial for VS08 ?

Е15000-005?

Yes.

[Lewis007]

High-res launch pics (clean version)

[mto]

Now shows "This video has been removed by the user"

Arianespace video of the launch broadcast

[Lewis007]

It's strange that Arianespace removed their video, but they reposted it.
New location:

[Lewis007]

The O3b satellites are now operational following on-orbit testing.
http://www.o3bnetworks.com/3406