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International Space Flight (ESA, Russia, China and others) => ESA Launchers - Ariane, Soyuz at CSG, Vega => Topic started by: beidou on 11/16/2015 08:19 pm

Title: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: beidou on 11/16/2015 08:19 pm
From a recent presentation made by ESA representative (Guenter Hein) on IAIN 2015 conference:
Quote
FOC-M6 (Launch in autumn 2017, Ariane-5)
• FM15-18 at OHB Bremen, under integration
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA24x - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Q3 2017
Post by: beidou on 11/18/2016 03:11 pm
According to the launch kit of VA233, this mission will be in the third quarter of 2017.
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA24x - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - August 9, 2017
Post by: beidou on 01/14/2017 09:37 pm
Quote
Launch of Galileo

In coordination with the EC, an Ariane 5 will for the second time use a new payload dispenser to release four identical satellites into orbit in one go.

Location: CSG, Europe’s Spaceport (French Guiana)

Expected date: 9 August
Source: http://www.esa.int/For_Media/Press_Releases/ESA_activities_in_2017_of_interest_to_media
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA24x - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - August 9, 2017
Post by: Jester on 01/15/2017 09:36 am
Outdated info, looking like November/December
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA24x - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - August 9, 2017
Post by: jgoldader on 01/18/2017 09:45 am
I saw an article on phys.org just now about failed clocks on the Galileo sats already launched.  Each satellite has two rubidium and two hydrogen maser clocks (one primary and one backup each, IIRC), and of the 18 sats launched, 3 rubidium and 6 hydrogen clocks have failed.  ESA is exploring how to proceed.

https://phys.org/news/2017-01-clocks-onboard-europe-satellites-esa.html
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA24x - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - August 9, 2017
Post by: Nick L on 01/18/2017 11:26 am
Jan Woerner, the director general of the European Space Agency (Esa), told a meeting with reporters today:
 "Everybody is raising this question: should we postpone the next launch until we find the root cause, or should we launch?

"You can give both answers at the same time. You can say we wait until we find the solution but that means if more clocks fail we will reduce the capability of Galileo. But if we launch we will at least maintain if not increase the [capability], but we may then take the risk that a systematic problem is not considered. We are right now in this discussion about what to do."

Each Galileo satellite carries two rubidium and two hydrogen maser clocks. The multiple installation enables a satellite to keep working after an initial failure.

All 18 spacecraft currently in space continue to operate, but one of them is now down to just two clocks.

Esa staff at its technical centre, ESTEC, in the Netherlands are trying to isolate the cause the of failures - with the assistance of the clock and satellite manufacturers. (It is understood engineers have managed to get one stopped hydrogen clock restarted).

Esa is also in contact with the Indian space agency which is using the same clocks in its sat-nav system. So far, the Indians have not experienced the same failures.

Source: http://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-38664225
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA24x - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - August 9, 2017
Post by: Nick L on 01/18/2017 01:51 pm
In this article, ESA and the European commission have agreed to delay Galileo's next launch by 3-4 months, to late 2017.
Confirming Jester's post.

https://www.spaceintelreport.com/galileo-clocks
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA24x - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - August 9, 2017
Post by: Jester on 01/18/2017 03:39 pm
lets say its rather busy right now ;)
Its tricky issue to get to the bottom of, you can only test so much on-ground and everything worked fine on-ground.

keep in mind we have 4 clocks per satellite, so we can continue to operate.

But yes, it looks like another end of the year launch, arianespace x-mas hats included...
First, loads of work ahead.


Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA24x - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - November 2017
Post by: beidou on 01/19/2017 07:33 pm
This massive atomic clock failure can easily defer the launch into 2018 if root cause is not quickly hunted out...
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA24x - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - November 2017
Post by: Jester on 01/20/2017 02:59 pm
This massive atomic clock failure can easily defer the launch into 2018 if root cause is not quickly hunted out...

Although its an issue, 6 out of 72 clocks is hardly massive.

Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA24x - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - November 2017
Post by: Jester on 01/20/2017 03:01 pm
plan is to launch before end 2017, this plan includes understanding the issue, fixing it, re-test and re-qual.
So, yes we will be busy :)
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA24x - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - November 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 01/21/2017 09:36 am
Although its an issue, 6 out of 72 clocks is hardly massive.

A failure rate of 8.3% is pretty bad.
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA24x - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - November 2017
Post by: baldusi on 01/21/2017 07:17 pm
Although its an issue, 6 out of 72 clocks is hardly massive.

A failure rate of 8.3% is pretty bad.
The correct figure of merit is mean time to failure, I'm not so worried about the IOV failures, but the FOC are much more worrisome if you consider the required mean life of the satellites.
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA24x - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - November 2017
Post by: beidou on 01/31/2017 07:30 pm
Although its an issue, 6 out of 72 clocks is hardly massive.

A failure rate of 8.3% is pretty bad.

In fact, 10 out of 72 clocks have had problems, so the failure rate is 13.9%, which is even worse.
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA24x - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - December 2017
Post by: beidou on 06/11/2017 09:56 pm
Currently on track for a launch in December 2017.
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA24x - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 02 2017
Post by: jacqmans on 09/05/2017 12:46 pm
Last Galileo leaves ESA’s Test Centre

4 September 2017
The last of 22 Galileo satellites has departed ESA’s Test Centre in the Netherlands – concluding the single longest and largest scale test campaign in the establishment’s history.

Cocooned in a protective container for its journey – equipped with air conditioning, temperature control and shock absorbers – the final Galileo satellite left the establishment by lorry on 24 August.

http://www.esa.int/Our_Activities/Navigation/Last_Galileo_leaves_ESA_s_Test_Centre
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA24x - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 02 2017
Post by: beidou on 09/05/2017 08:54 pm
Last Galileo leaves ESA’s Test Centre

4 September 2017
The last of 22 Galileo satellites has departed ESA’s Test Centre in the Netherlands – concluding the single longest and largest scale test campaign in the establishment’s history.

Cocooned in a protective container for its journey – equipped with air conditioning, temperature control and shock absorbers – the final Galileo satellite left the establishment by lorry on 24 August.

http://www.esa.int/Our_Activities/Navigation/Last_Galileo_leaves_ESA_s_Test_Centre

Doesn't the last satellite mean FOC FM22? I think FOC FM22 will not launched in this mission.
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA24x - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 02 2017
Post by: russianhalo117 on 09/05/2017 09:38 pm
Last Galileo leaves ESA’s Test Centre

4 September 2017
The last of 22 Galileo satellites has departed ESA’s Test Centre in the Netherlands – concluding the single longest and largest scale test campaign in the establishment’s history.

Cocooned in a protective container for its journey – equipped with air conditioning, temperature control and shock absorbers – the final Galileo satellite left the establishment by lorry on 24 August.

http://www.esa.int/Our_Activities/Navigation/Last_Galileo_leaves_ESA_s_Test_Centre

Doesn't the last satellite mean FOC FM22? I think FOC FM22 will not launched in this mission.
There are some FOC's that do not yet have an assigned rocket yet.
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA24x - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 02 2017
Post by: Jester on 09/07/2017 02:36 pm
Last Galileo leaves ESA’s Test Centre

4 September 2017
The last of 22 Galileo satellites has departed ESA’s Test Centre in the Netherlands – concluding the single longest and largest scale test campaign in the establishment’s history.

Cocooned in a protective container for its journey – equipped with air conditioning, temperature control and shock absorbers – the final Galileo satellite left the establishment by lorry on 24 August.

http://www.esa.int/Our_Activities/Navigation/Last_Galileo_leaves_ESA_s_Test_Centre

Doesn't the last satellite mean FOC FM22? I think FOC FM22 will not launched in this mission.
There are some FOC's that do not yet have an assigned rocket yet.

They are all assigned, 2x A5's
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: russianhalo117 on 09/07/2017 02:48 pm
Last Galileo leaves ESA’s Test Centre

4 September 2017
The last of 22 Galileo satellites has departed ESA’s Test Centre in the Netherlands – concluding the single longest and largest scale test campaign in the establishment’s history.

Cocooned in a protective container for its journey – equipped with air conditioning, temperature control and shock absorbers – the final Galileo satellite left the establishment by lorry on 24 August.

http://www.esa.int/Our_Activities/Navigation/Last_Galileo_leaves_ESA_s_Test_Centre

Doesn't the last satellite mean FOC FM22? I think FOC FM22 will not launched in this mission.
There are some FOC's that do not yet have an assigned rocket yet.

They are all assigned, 2x A5's
So you are saying these are also assigned:
per NSF Arianespace Schedule:
2020:
TBD - Galileo-FOC FM23, Galileo-FOC FM24 - TBD - Kourou
TBD - Galileo-FOC FM25, Galileo-FOC FM26 - TBD - Kourou
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: Jester on 09/07/2017 02:53 pm
Last Galileo leaves ESA’s Test Centre

4 September 2017
The last of 22 Galileo satellites has departed ESA’s Test Centre in the Netherlands – concluding the single longest and largest scale test campaign in the establishment’s history.

Cocooned in a protective container for its journey – equipped with air conditioning, temperature control and shock absorbers – the final Galileo satellite left the establishment by lorry on 24 August.

http://www.esa.int/Our_Activities/Navigation/Last_Galileo_leaves_ESA_s_Test_Centre

Doesn't the last satellite mean FOC FM22? I think FOC FM22 will not launched in this mission.
There are some FOC's that do not yet have an assigned rocket yet.

They are all assigned, 2x A5's
So you are saying these are also assigned:
per NSF Arianespace Schedule:
2020:
TBD - Galileo-FOC FM23, Galileo-FOC FM24 - TBD - Kourou
TBD - Galileo-FOC FM25, Galileo-FOC FM26 - TBD - Kourou

I meant FM's that actually excist ;-)
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: bolun on 09/14/2017 07:42 am
September 13, 2017

The Ariane 5 for Arianespace’s next Galileo mission arrives at the Spaceport

Elements for Arianespace’s Ariane 5 mission in December have been delivered to the Spaceport in French Guiana for the heavy-lift launcher’s second flight at the service of Europe’s Galileo global satellite navigation system.

These components arrived this month in French Guiana aboard the MN Colibri, which is one of two sea-going roll-on/roll-off ships that transport launcher hardware from Europe to the South American launch site for Arianespace’s family of launch vehicles.

The year-end launch will orbit four more Galileo spacecraft, to be deployed into medium Earth orbit from a dispenser system on the Ariane 5 ES launcher version equipped with a re-ignitable upper stage. Galileo is designed to provide a new European global satellite navigation system with precision positioning services under civilian control.

A December liftoff for Ariane 5 and its Galileo satellites

Designated Flight VA240 in Arianespace’s launcher family numbering system, the mission is targeted for December 12. As the latest mission carrying Galileo satellites, Flight VA240 is to be performed on behalf of the European Commission under a contract with the European Space Agency (ESA).

Galileo is funded by the European Union, with overall responsibility for management and implementation held by the European Commission. ESA is assigned design and development of the new generation of systems and infrastructure.

Arianespace already has launched 18 Galileo spacecraft, with four being orbited on a previous Ariane 5 mission (Flight VA233 in November 2016), and the others lofted by seven medium-lift Soyuz vehicles carrying two satellites each.

http://www.arianespace.com/mission-update/ariane-5-arrives-in-french-guiana/
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 09/19/2017 01:00 pm
Quote
DutchSpace‏ @DutchSpace 9m9 minutes ago

Something has arrived.... #CSG #VA240 #Galileo

https://twitter.com/DutchSpace/status/910123675042631682 (https://twitter.com/DutchSpace/status/910123675042631682)
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 09/20/2017 02:11 pm
Quote
Special delivery! 2 of the 4 #Galileo satellites for launch on #Ariane5 Flight #VA240 have arrived in French Guiana @EU_Commission @esa #OHB

https://twitter.com/arianespaceceo/status/910505875751792640 (https://twitter.com/arianespaceceo/status/910505875751792640)
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17 & 18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: zubenelgenubi on 09/29/2017 02:09 am
Cross-post from the VA239 thread (http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=43447.0):
Quote
Ariane 5   September 28, 2017

Galileo satellites are readied for Flight VA240 in December

In other activity at the Spaceport, the first two satellites for Arianespace’s Flight VA240 with Ariane 5 have begun their checkout. Targeted for a liftoff on December 12 carrying a quartet of Galileo navigation spacecraft, this mission will be performed on behalf of the European Commission under a contract with the European Space Agency (ESA).

Arianespace already has launched 18 Galileo spacecraft, with four being deployed into medium Earth orbits on a previous Ariane 5 mission (Flight VA233 in November 2016), and the others lofted by seven medium-lift Soyuz vehicles carrying two satellites each.

Galileo is designed to provide a European global satellite navigation system with precision positioning services under civilian control.

http://www.arianespace.com/mission-update/ariane-5-mission-preps/
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 10/18/2017 09:07 am
Quote
DutchSpace‏ @DutchSpace 5h5 hours ago

Something arrived.... part 2, in a Boeing 747-800 no less, #Galileo #VA240 #Ariane5 #CSG #Kourou #Cayenne

https://twitter.com/DutchSpace/status/920495857329459201 (https://twitter.com/DutchSpace/status/920495857329459201)
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 10/18/2017 02:57 pm
Confirmation all spacecraft have arrived:

Quote
Stéphane Israël‏ @arianespaceceo 9m9 minutes ago

All 4 #Galileo spacecraft for #Ariane5 Flight #VA240 are in French Guiana following today’s 2-satellite delivery @EU_Commission @esa #OHB

https://twitter.com/arianespaceceo/status/920662618771197952 (https://twitter.com/arianespaceceo/status/920662618771197952)
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 10/20/2017 03:41 pm
Quote
Peekaboo #Galileo #VA240 #CSG

https://twitter.com/DutchSpace/status/921399759918764032 (https://twitter.com/DutchSpace/status/921399759918764032)
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 10/24/2017 08:04 pm
Quote
Ariane 5   October 24, 2017
Four Galileo spacecraft are prepared for their December Ariane 5 launch

Payload processing for Arianespace’s second Ariane 5 mission in support of Europe’s Galileo global navigation system has reached full speed, with all four satellites now at the Spaceport.

Liftoff of Arianespace’s Ariane 5 with these satellites is targeted for December 12, coming after the heavy-lift workhorse’s previous flight at the service of Galileo, which successfully delivered four other spacecraft to medium-Earth circular orbit in November 2016.

The upcoming mission is designated Flight VA240 in Arianespace’s launcher family numbering system, denoting the 240th performed with an Ariane-series vehicle from the Spaceport. It also will be the company’s 11th and final launch in 2017, closing out a busy year of space lift activity.

A global navigation system for Europe

As the latest mission carrying Galileo satellites, Flight VA240 is to be conducted on behalf of the European Commission under a contract with the European Space Agency (ESA). Galileo is funded by the European Union, with overall responsibility for management and implementation held by the European Commission. ESA is assigned design and development of the new generation of systems and infrastructure.

Arianespace already has launched a total of 18 Galileo spacecraft, including the four orbited by Ariane 5 in November 2016, plus the others lofted by seven preceding medium-lift Soyuz vehicles that carried two satellites each.

http://www.arianespace.com/mission-update/galileo-payload-preps/ (http://www.arianespace.com/mission-update/galileo-payload-preps/)

Photo caption:

Quote
One of the latest-delivered Galileo satellites is removed from its protective shipping container inside the Spaceport’s S1A payload preparation facility.
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: bolun on 10/27/2017 02:52 pm
http://www.csgpreparationlancement.com/ariane/vol-ariane-232-transfert-des-eap-au-bil/

Rocket assembly has started.
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: bolun on 10/27/2017 03:27 pm
http://www.csgpreparationlancement.com/ariane/vol-ariane-220-fitcheck-du-satellite-intelsat-30dla-1/

Some pics of the Gallileo satellites.
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 10/28/2017 01:22 pm
Quote
I'll have to wave next time ;-) #Galileo #VA240

https://twitter.com/dutchspace/status/924249812249268225
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: jacqmans on 10/30/2017 12:16 pm
Macron and Juncker visit to Europe's Spaceport in Kourou
 

ESA Director General Jan Woerner (right) with French President Emmanuel Macron (centre) and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker (left) during their visit to Europe's Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, on 27 October 2017. In the background is the Ariane 5 that is set for launch in December with four Galileo satellites.
 
Credit: ESA/CNES/Arianespace/Optique vidéo du CSG - P. Piron
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: zubenelgenubi on 10/30/2017 03:08 pm
Wow!  How often do heads of government or state visit Kourou?

Macron and Juncker visit to Europe's Spaceport in Kourou
 
ESA Director General Jan Woerner (right) with French President Emmanuel Macron (centre) and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker (left) during their visit to Europe's Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, on 27 October 2017.
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: Mike Jones on 11/03/2017 08:14 pm
Previous French presidential visit (from F. Hollande) to Kourou took place in December 2013 : 4 years ago.
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: bolun on 11/10/2017 09:05 am
http://www.csgpreparationlancement.com/ariane/vol-ariane-229-assemblage-du-composite-superieur/

Integration of the upper composite
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: Salo on 11/13/2017 08:55 pm
http://www.csgpreparationlancement.com/
Quote
Save the date

Prochain lancement : Vol Ariane 240
12 décembre à 15h36 (locale), lancement de 4 nouveaux satellites de la constellation Galileo.
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: Lewis007 on 11/14/2017 06:50 am
Logos have been placed on the rocket fairing on Nov 9
Source: http://www.csgpreparationlancement.com/ariane/vol-ariane-213-pose-des-logos-sur-la-coiffe-du-lanceur/
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: Lewis007 on 11/17/2017 06:48 am
The Galileo sats have been fueled.
Source & (more pics): CSG facebook + http://www.csgpreparationlancement.com/ariane/vol-ariane-233-remplissage-des-satellites-galileo/
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: beidou on 11/21/2017 07:48 pm
Galileo quartet fuelled and ready to fly

21 November 2017
Europe’s next four Galileo navigation satellites and the Ariane 5 rocket due to lift them into orbit are being readied for their 12 December launch from Europe’s Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana.

Tuesday saw Galileo satellites 19–22 declared ready for flight, along with their Ariane. Combined activities are now under way, culminating in the satellites meeting their rocket in the Final Assembly Building.

The satellites were flown in pairs to French Guiana last month. Once safely unboxed in the Spaceport’s cleanroom environment, they were tested to ensure they had suffered no damage during their transatlantic flights.

Next came their ‘fit check’, when they were mechanically and electrically linked one by one to the dispenser that will carry them during their ascent to the target 23 500 km-altitude orbit, before releasing them into space.

 
Four Galileos on Ariane 5
Last Friday saw the satellites filled with enough fuel to fine-tune their orbits and orientation during their projected 12 year working lives. Next, they will be attached to their dispenser together for the final time.

In parallel, their customised Ariane 5 is being assembled. Two solid-propellant boosters were mated with its main cryogenic stage before the addition of the interstage that carries the electronics to control the vehicle.

Next came the addition of the storable propellant stage, powered by a reignitable engine, which will deliver the quartet to their target orbit.

 
Ariane 5 taking shape
Once fully checked, the Ariane will be moved to the final building for the addition of the satellites atop their dispenser, sealed within their protective fairing.

This launch will bring the total Galileo constellation to 22, boosting the global availability of navigation signals. Galileo began Initial Services just under a year ago, the first step before full operations, on 15 December.


 
Satellite fit check
About Galileo

Galileo is Europe’s own satellite navigation system, consisting of both the satellites in space and their associated ground infrastructure, to provide an array of positioning, navigation and timing services to Europe and the world.

The definition, development and in-orbit validation phases were carried out by ESA, and co-funded by ESA and the European Commission. This phase created a mini-constellation of four satellites and a reduced ground segment set up to validate the overall concept, ahead of further deployment.

The current Full Operational Capability phase is fully funded by the EU and managed by the Commission. The Commission and ESA have a delegation agreement by which ESA acts as design and procurement agent on behalf of the Commission.

http://www.esa.int/Our_Activities/Navigation/Galileo_quartet_fuelled_and_ready_to_fly
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 11/22/2017 08:26 pm
Quote
our #Ariane5 has been transferred from #BIL to #BAF #VA240 #CSG #Galileo

https://twitter.com/dutchspace/status/933437432988659712
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: Lewis007 on 11/24/2017 06:47 am
VA 240 launch sticker, which also shows the informal names of the 4 sats: Irina, Alexandre, Zofia, and Nicole.
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: jacqmans on 11/24/2017 03:31 pm
Ariane 5 and its Galileo satellites are prepared for Arianespace’s December 12 mission


The Ariane 5 for Arianespace’s December 12 year-ending flight for 2017 has completed its initial build-up at the Spaceport in French Guiana – where preparations also are moving ahead with four satellite passengers that will further expand Europe’s Galileo global navigation system once in their final orbit.

During activity in the Spaceport’s Launcher Integration Building, this heavy-lift vehicle for Arianespace Flight VA240 underwent the assembly process that began by mating its two solid propellant strap-on boosters with the main cryogenic stage.

The next step was integration of Ariane 5’s vehicle equipment bay, which serves as the launch vehicle’s “brain,” providing autonomous control during the various mission phases.

The Ariane 5 ES difference

It was followed by installation of the EPS storable propellant stage, powered by a re-ignitable engine that operates with MMH and N2O4 propellants. This differentiates the Ariane 5 ES configuration from Arianespace’s Ariane 5 ECA version – which has a cryogenic upper stage and typically is used on Arianespace missions with telecommunications satellites to geostationary transfer orbits.

After completion of verifications and systems checkout by production prime contractor ArianeGroup, the Ariane 5 ES launch vehicle will be moved to the Spaceport’s Final Assembly Building for payload integration and readiness for rollout to the launch zone.

The mission’s ongoing payload preparations – which so far included the checkout and fit-check procedure for each of the four Galileo satellites – took place inside the Spaceport’s S1A processing facility. This involved a one-by-one verification of the spacecraft’s interface with the payload dispenser that will release them into circular orbit during the mission.

Galileo satellites checked…and fit

After the fit-check procedure in the S1A facility, the four satellites were readied for transfer to the S3B payload preparation center for fueling.

For Ariane 5’s December 12 mission, the heavy-lift vehicle will carry its quartet of Galileo satellites (weighing approximately 715 kg. each) and their dispenser system for a medium-Earth orbit deployment.

Galileo is the European initiative to develop a global satellite navigation system. Under civilian control, it will offer a guaranteed, high-precision positioning service. As a European Union-funded program, the Galileo constellation will comprise 24 operational satellites, along with spares.

Overall responsibility for Galileo’s management and implementation is held by the European Commission, with the European Space Agency assigned design and development of the new generation of systems and infrastructure.

Ariane 5’s mission with the four Galileo spacecraft will close out a busy year of launch activity for Arianespace, which has performed 10 missions from French Guiana so far in 2017 – all of which were successful. The flights to date involved five launches of the heavy-lift Ariane 5, two with the medium Soyuz and three with the lightweight Vega.
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 11/28/2017 07:27 pm
Quote
Getting closer to launch..... our babies together on the dispenser #VA240 #Galileo

https://twitter.com/dutchspace/status/935600470210613256 (https://twitter.com/dutchspace/status/935600470210613256)
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: Rik ISS-fan on 11/29/2017 10:06 am
ESA video: Galileo 19-22 near completion (http://www.esa.int/spaceinvideos/Videos/2017/12/Galileo_19-22_near_completion)
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: beidou on 11/29/2017 04:06 pm
ESA video: Galileo 19-22 near completion (http://www.esa.int/spaceinvideos/Videos/2017/12/Galileo_19-22_near_completion)

There is already a thread (https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=41652.0) for Galileo 19-22 mission.
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: gwiz on 11/29/2017 04:17 pm
FM15 to FM18 are the same as Galileo Sat 19 to 22.  Galileo numbering includes the four IOV sats, FM numbers re-started with the FOC sats.
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: calapine on 11/29/2017 06:32 pm
The VA240 Ariane has been moved from the BIL to the BAF

(http://www.csgpreparationlancement.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Transfert_BIL_BAF_106.jpg)

(http://www.csgpreparationlancement.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Transfert_BIL_BAF_067.jpg)

(http://www.csgpreparationlancement.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Transfert_BIL_BAF_012.jpg)

(http://www.csgpreparationlancement.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Transfert_BIL_BAF_002.jpg)

Source: http://www.csgpreparationlancement.com/ariane/vol-ariane-7-transfert-du-bil-au-baf/
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 11/30/2017 03:41 pm
Quote
Our fuel technicians are hard at work preparing for the launch of V240 on December 12. Their protective suits make them look a bit like astronauts, no?

https://twitter.com/arianegroup/status/936263024217870337
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 12/01/2017 08:45 pm
Quote
Ariane 5   
December 1, 2017

Galileo satellites for Arianespace’s December 12 mission are ready for launcher integration

As preparations advance for Arianespace’s year-ending flight from the Spaceport in French Guiana, the mission’s payload of four Galileo navigation satellites is now ready to join up with its Ariane 5 launcher.

The spacecraft have been fueled and installed on their multi-payload dispenser system, clearing the way for transfer from the Spaceport’s S3B clean room to Ariane 5’s Final Assembly Building.

Designated Flight VA240, the upcoming mission will mark Arianespace’s second use of an Ariane 5 ES version to loft spacecraft for Europe’s Galileo global navigation system – following the first four-passenger launch in November 2016 on the heavy-lift launcher. This came after seven previous missions using the medium-lift Soyuz, which carried a pair of operational satellites each.

Flight VA240 at the service of a European initiative

Galileo is the European initiative to develop a global satellite navigation system. Under civilian control, it will offer a guaranteed, high-precision positioning service and features innovative technologies developed in Europe for the benefit of all citizens.

The European Commission holds overall responsibility for Galileo’s management and implementation, with the European Space Agency assigned design and development of the new generation of systems and infrastructure.

Each of the Galileo passengers for Flight VA240 weighs approximately 715 kg. and was built by OHB System in Germany, with U.K.-based Surrey Satellite Technology supplying the navigation payload. All four will be deployed into medium-Earth orbit by Arianespace.

Scheduled for a December 12 liftoff, Ariane 5’s mission with the four Galileo spacecraft will close out a busy year of launch activity for Arianespace.

The company has conducted 10 missions from French Guiana so far in 2017 – involving five launches of the heavy-lift Ariane 5, two with the medium Soyuz and three with the lightweight Vega.

http://www.arianespace.com/mission-update/galileo-satellites-integration/ (http://www.arianespace.com/mission-update/galileo-satellites-integration/)
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: jacqmans on 12/05/2017 10:36 am
Press Release

N°24-2017

Paris, 5 December 2017


Call for Media: Galileo 19-22 ready to launch

The next four Galileo satellites are scheduled for launch on 12 December at 15:36 local time (19:36 CET) from Europe’s spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana atop an Ariane 5 rocket.

This launch will bring the total Galileo constellation to 22, boosting the global availability of navigation signals. Galileo began initial services on 15 December 2016, the first step towards full operations.

Media are invited to take part in an audio briefing on 11 December at 17:30 CET to learn the latest on the status of the system.  Journalists interested in joining the briefing should request access information via email to ESA’s Media Relations Office at: [email protected] by 08  December at the latest.

Covering the launch

ESA TV

In cooperation with Arianespace, ESA TV provides broadcasters with free live videostream of the launch. More information at: http://www.esa.int/esatv/Television

Website

ESA’s Portal will cover the launch live on www.esa.int, providing the web stream and updates of the launch.

Images

The latest high-resolution images can be found at:

ESA’s Multimedia Gallery: http://spaceinimages.esa.int/Images


Social media

Twitter: @ESA and the hashtag #Galileo

In addition, there will be updates on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EuropeanSpaceAgency

Google+: https://plus.google.com/+EuropeanSpaceAgency

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ESA


About Galileo

Galileo is Europe’s own satellite navigation system, consisting of both the satellites in space and their associated ground infrastructure, to provide an array of positioning, navigation and timing services to Europe and the world.

The definition, development and in-orbit validation phases were carried out by ESA, and co-funded by ESA and the European Commission. This phase created a mini-constellation of four satellites and a reduced ground segment set up to validate the overall concept, ahead of further deployment.

The current Full Operational Capability phase is fully funded by the EU and managed by the Commission. The Commission and ESA have a delegation agreement by which ESA acts as design and procurement agent on behalf of the Commission.

Learn more about Galileo at:

http://www.esa.int/Our_Activities/Navigation
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 12/05/2017 04:38 pm
Quote
Bye bye... #VA240 #Galileo

https://twitter.com/DutchSpace/status/938097118035750913
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: ZachS09 on 12/06/2017 01:33 am
Arianespace press kit is now available:

http://www.arianespace.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/VA240-launchkit-EN.pdf (http://www.arianespace.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/VA240-launchkit-EN.pdf)
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: jacqmans on 12/06/2017 08:09 am
Flight VA240: Arianespace’s second Ariane 5 launch for the Galileo constellation and Europe


December 5, 2017 – For its 11th launch of the year, and the sixth Ariane 5 liftoff from the Guiana Space Center (CSG) in French Guiana during 2017, Arianespace will orbit four more satellites for the Galileo constellation.

 This mission is being performed on behalf of the European Commission under a contract with the European Space Agency (ESA).

 For the second time, an Ariane 5 ES version will be used to orbit satellites in Europe’s own satellite navigation system. At the completion of this flight, designated Flight VA240 in Arianespace’s launcher family numbering system, 22 Galileo spacecraft will have been launched by Arianespace with Soyuz and Ariane 5 launchers.

 A final Ariane 5 ES mission will deploy four additional Galileo constellation satellites in 2018, after which Ariane 6 takes over from 2020-2021 – with its initial two Galileo launches contracted by ESA on behalf of the European Commission in September 2017.

 The Flight VA240 will be from Ariane Launch Complex No. 3 (ELA 3) in Kourou, French Guiana.

 The Launch Readiness Review (LRR) will take place on Friday, December 8, 2017 in Kourou, to authorize the start of operations for the final countdown.

Galileo is Europe’s own global navigation satellite system. Under civilian control, Galileo offers guaranteed high-precision positioning around the world. Its initial services began in December 2016, allowing users equipped with Galileo-enabled devices to combine Galileo and GPS data for better positioning accuracy.

 The complete Galileo constellation will comprise a total of 24 operational satellites (along with spares); 18 of these satellites already have been orbited by Arianespace.

 ESA transferred formal responsibility for oversight of Galileo in-orbit operations to the GSA (European GNSS Agency) in July 2017.

 Therefore, as of this launch, the GSA will be in charge of the operation of the Galileo satellite navigation systems on behalf of the European Union. GSA will be responsible for operating these satellites as soon as they separate from the launcher. Satellite positioning operations and system operation will be carried out in conjunction with ESA.

 The Galileo satellites are built by prime contractor OHB System in Bremen, Germany, with the payloads supplied by UK-based Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL), which is 99% owned by Airbus Defence and Space.
•For further information, download the Flight VA240 Launch Kit by clicking here: http://www.arianespace.com/press-kits/
   
•To watch a live, high-speed online transmission of the launch (including commentary in French and English from the launch site), go to arianespace.com on December 12 beginning 15 minutes before liftoff.
   
•You also can follow the launch live on your iPhone or iPad (the Arianespace HD app is free).

Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 12/07/2017 10:47 pm
https://youtu.be/2U_PtVfyxKE (https://youtu.be/2U_PtVfyxKE)
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 12/07/2017 10:53 pm
Quote
December 7, 2017
The integration of Galileo satellites with Ariane 5 is complete for Arianespace’s year-ending heavy-lift mission

Arianespace’s Ariane 5 is now complete and ready for its mission next week from the Spaceport in French Guiana, which will orbit four more spacecraft to join the European Galileo constellation of navigation satellites.

During activity in the Spaceport’s Final Assembly Building, the Ariane 5’s build-up process was completed with the lowering of its ogive-shaped payload fairing over the four satellite passengers – which previously were positioned atop the launcher’s core section.

Following final check-out, Ariane 5 will be ready for its rollout to the ELA-3 launch zone on Monday, December 11, positioning this vehicle for a liftoff the next day at exactly 3:36:07 p.m., local time in French Guiana.

The four Galileo satellites, which are clustered around a multi-passenger dispenser system, will be deployed in two phases during the mission to medium Earth orbit (MEO) lasting 3 hours, 55 minutes.

Arianespace’s Ariane 5 at the service of Galileo

Ariane 5’s afternoon liftoff on December 12 will be the year-ending mission in 2017 for Arianespace – completing a busy 12 months that already have involved 10 flights from the Spaceport: five performed with the heavy-lift workhorse, three utilizing the lightweight Vega and two with the medium-lift Soyuz.

Designated Flight VA240 in Arianespace’s numbering system, next Tuesday’s mission will mark the second time an Ariane

http://www.arianespace.com/mission-update/galileo-payload-integration/

Photo caption:

Quote
Ariane 5’s final build-up activity at the Spaceport involved the launcher protective fairing’s lowering over the Flight VA240 payload of four Galileo navigation satellites installed atop the launcher vehicle’s central core.
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 12/08/2017 06:30 pm
Quote
We’re another step closer to Flight #VA240: today’s launch readiness review cleared #Ariane5 for its Dec. 12 liftoff with four #Galileo navigation satellites 🛰️🛰️🛰️🛰️ @EU_Commission @esa

https://twitter.com/arianespaceceo/status/939214763678150657
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: jacqmans on 12/09/2017 09:52 am
https://youtu.be/gj_xHvNPsRg
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 12/11/2017 08:38 am
https://youtu.be/2pI6T_yuXss (https://youtu.be/2pI6T_yuXss)
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 12/11/2017 04:10 pm
Quote
Roll-out to the #ZL3 pad completed for our #Ariane5 ES launcher #VA240 #Galileo #CSG

https://twitter.com/DutchSpace/status/940265598445113345 (https://twitter.com/DutchSpace/status/940265598445113345)
Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: input~2 on 12/11/2017 04:48 pm
WESTERN NORTH ATLANTIC.
FRENCH GUIANA.
1. HAZARDOUS OPERATIONS:
A. 1659Z TO 1906Z DAILY 12 THRU 21 DEC
IN AREA BOUND BY
10-05N 049-52W, 09-46N 049-24W,
08-48N 050-04W, 09-06N 050-32W.
B. 1659Z TO 1906Z DAILY 12 THRU 21 DEC
IN AREA BOUND BY
12-12N 048-29W, 11-48N 047-55W,
10-26N 048-53W, 10-49N 049-27W.
C. 1749Z TO 1906Z DAILY 12 THRU 21 DEC
IN AREA BOUND BY
05-20N 052-49W, 05-33N 052-42W,
05-27N 052-28W, 05-10N 052-38W.
2. CANCEL THIS MSG 212006Z DEC 17.//

Authority: FRENCH GUIANA 201328Z NOV 17.

Date: 080449Z DEC 17
Cancel: 21200600 Dec 17

EASTERN SOUTH PACIFIC.
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS.
1. HAZARDOUS OPERATIONS, ROCKET LAUNCHING
1942Z TO 2136Z DAILY 12 THRU 21 DEC
IN AREA BOUND BY
00-53N 086-51W, 00-09S 085-11W,
14-58S 094-38W, 13-54S 096-19W.
2. CANCEL THIS MSG 212236Z DEC 17.//

Authority: FRENCH GUIANA 201328Z NOV 17.

Date: 080509Z DEC 17
Cancel: 21223600 Dec 17

Title: Re: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015, 16, 17&18 - Dec 12 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 12/11/2017 09:47 pm
Quote
#Galileo launch update from Kourou: Weather forecast for tomorrow's launch is GREEN
Launch scheduled for 12 December 18:36 UTC/19:36 CET
Watch LIVE: http://m.esa.int/Our_Activities/Navigation/Watch_the_launch_of_Galileos_19_22

https://twitter.com/esa/status/940328593313419264
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Galactic Penguin SST on 12/12/2017 03:33 am
Moved for live coverage.
Good luck to Jester et al.!  8)
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: jacqmans on 12/12/2017 07:36 am
December 11, 2017 

Ariane 5 moves to the launch zone for Arianespace’s mission with four Galileo satellites

Arianespace’s Ariane 5 for Flight VA240 nears the completion of its rollout to the Spaceport’s ELA-3 launch zone for tomorrow’s afternoon liftoff with four Galileo satellites.

The next four spacecraft to join Europe’s Galileo satellite navigation system are one step closer to launch following the rollout of their Ariane 5 at the Spaceport in French Guiana.

With today’s transfer from the Spaceport’s Final Assembly Building to the ELA-3 launch zone, Arianespace’s year-ending mission of 2017 can now enter its final countdown for liftoff tomorrow afternoon.

Designated Flight VA240 in Arianespace’s launcher family numbering system, the December 12 launch will deploy its Galileo spacecraft cluster into medium Earth orbit (MEO) at the completion of a mission lasting 3 hours, 55 minutes.

During the trajectory, Ariane 5’s storable propellant upper stage will perform two burns, which are to be separated by a 3-hour, 8-minute ballistic phase.

The satellites have a liftoff mass of approximately 715 kg. each, with Ariane 5’s overall payload lift performance on Flight VA240 set at 3,282 kg.
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: jacqmans on 12/12/2017 07:37 am
https://youtu.be/lLdjayjT0Gc
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 12/12/2017 09:56 am
Quote
Countdown has started for our launch, first meteo check is green so far, showers in the area #VA240 #Galileo

https://twitter.com/DutchSpace/status/940534805464313856
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 12/12/2017 11:40 am
Quote
Weather for today's #Ariane5 launch is green. Lightning criteria nevertheless remain under monitoring (moderate risk). Liftoff set for 18:36 GMT/19:36 CET. Watch LIVE: http://www.esa.int/Our_Activities/Navigation/Watch_the_launch_of_Galileos_19_22

https://twitter.com/esa/status/940560336758956032
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Chris Bergin on 12/12/2017 12:17 pm
Love the naming of the spacecraft.

Article:
https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2017/12/ariane-5-es-another-galileo-quadruplets/
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 12/12/2017 12:44 pm
Quote
Weather is green for EPC filling #Ariane5 #VA240 #Galileo

https://twitter.com/DutchSpace/status/940577923739848706 (https://twitter.com/DutchSpace/status/940577923739848706)
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 12/12/2017 01:36 pm
Quote
So far so good, board is green, EPC being filled #VA240 #Galileo

https://twitter.com/DutchSpace/status/940589088482131973 (https://twitter.com/DutchSpace/status/940589088482131973)
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: lucspace on 12/12/2017 01:55 pm
This is the first Ariane 5 bearing the new Arianespace logo.
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 12/12/2017 04:31 pm
Quote
EPC filling done, some rain still in the area, so far all ok #VA240 #Galileo

https://twitter.com/DutchSpace/status/940634926071894017
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Yellowstone10 on 12/12/2017 04:40 pm
Arianespace FM is live!

http://www.arianespace.com/mission/ariane-flight-va240/
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Chris Bergin on 12/12/2017 05:21 pm
And we're live!
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Chris Bergin on 12/12/2017 05:25 pm
Green at T-12 mins
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Chris Bergin on 12/12/2017 05:25 pm
Rain on the camera.
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Chris Bergin on 12/12/2017 05:27 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Chris Bergin on 12/12/2017 05:30 pm
Autosequence.
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: zubenelgenubi on 12/12/2017 05:34 pm
Was that ELA-4, the construction site of the new Ariane 6 launch complex, in the foreground of the drone camera view?
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Chris Bergin on 12/12/2017 05:34 pm
T-120 seconds.
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Chris Bergin on 12/12/2017 05:37 pm
LAUNCH!!

Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Chris Bergin on 12/12/2017 05:37 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Chris Bergin on 12/12/2017 05:39 pm
Nominal first stage. Booster Sep.
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Chris Bergin on 12/12/2017 05:41 pm
There's the four "space babies" as Arianespace commentary Katy Haswell calls them.
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Chris Bergin on 12/12/2017 05:46 pm
On to the EPS.
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: pb2000 on 12/12/2017 05:49 pm
There's the four "space babies" as Arianespace commentary Katy Haswell calls them.
Not the best commentary I've ever heard. Did she seriously say that LOX/LH2 burns at absolute zero?

Edit: Nope, just found a replay. She stumbled over her words a bit, but was referring to the propellant temperature, not the combustion temperature. That being said, 20K is far from absolute zero.
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 12/12/2017 05:50 pm
Quote
Today's Ariane 5 launch of 4 #Galileo navigation satellites was delayed to give @ESA, prime contractor #ohb time to correct anomaly on rubidium & maser atomic clocks on some earlier sats. "The issue of the clocks is now behind us," ESA nav chief @paul_verhoef said.

https://twitter.com/pbdes/status/940653837748264961
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Chris Bergin on 12/12/2017 05:58 pm
Burn of the EPS complete. Into the ballistic phase at 8.8 km per second. Heading on the big climb uphill to the transfer orbit. Will take three hours to get there.
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Chris Bergin on 12/12/2017 05:59 pm
Katy with the French commentator and Katy started speaking in French! ;D
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 12/12/2017 06:32 pm
https://youtu.be/dZD3pkMplpk (https://youtu.be/dZD3pkMplpk)
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Rik ISS-fan on 12/12/2017 07:02 pm
Was that ELA-4, the construction site of the new Ariane 6 launch complex, in the foreground of the drone camera view?
I don't think it is.
On the picture posted by Chris Berger you can see the BIF and BAF, it's at the launcher preparation area of Ariane 5.
This is most likely the new solid preparation facility. (Horizontal stage assembly and stowage)
In this Youtube video @ 35:30, 38:50 & 40:25 you can see the drone footage.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=42Up2BITFHo

I've named the buildings on a screenshot from 40:25. Google maps location (https://www.google.nl/maps/@5.215,-52.778,5000m/data=!3m1!1e3)
Edit: I've added a screenshot from 35:30.
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Chris Bergin on 12/12/2017 09:03 pm
And we're back...
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: northenarc on 12/12/2017 09:07 pm
 burning, and view of Ariane 6 pad
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Rik ISS-fan on 12/12/2017 09:08 pm
Yes that was footage from ELA4  ;)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YdYnoyeV74o
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Rik ISS-fan on 12/12/2017 09:12 pm
Engine cuttoff
orienting for deployment
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Chris Bergin on 12/12/2017 09:13 pm
First two released.
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Rik ISS-fan on 12/12/2017 09:15 pm
Gallileo in your pocket video: IphoneX, Samsung S8 & Huawai?

and orbit parameters
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 12/12/2017 09:20 pm
Quote
Separation of the 1st pair of satellites is on. Signal captured. One more pair to go :)

https://twitter.com/eu_gnss/status/940706670203764736
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 12/12/2017 09:23 pm
Arianespace launch photo
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Rik ISS-fan on 12/12/2017 09:27 pm
On to the third language: German. OHB promotion video.  ;D :-X
? DC4EU ???
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Chris Bergin on 12/12/2017 09:30 pm
On to the third language: German. OHB promotion video.  ;D :-X
? DC4EU ???

Dream Chaser!
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Chris Bergin on 12/12/2017 09:33 pm
And there go the other two!

Congrats to all!
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Rik ISS-fan on 12/12/2017 09:36 pm
Don't cheer to early ;), that happened during launch of FOC sat 1&2, Soyuz VS07, sat 5&6.
Not that I'm expecting a anomaly, but wait untill Arianespace & ESA call the launch successful.
That's after acquisition of signal (and orbit confirmation  :-[) / health checks.
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Rik ISS-fan on 12/12/2017 09:45 pm
On to France Guiana landscape drone footage.   ::)
A way to entertain while we wait until the health checks have been completed.

I think they called out completion of passivization of EPS (L10 upperstage)
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Rik ISS-fan on 12/12/2017 09:52 pm
Stefan Israel called out:
- Confirmation of orbit
- Aquisition of signals from all four satellites
(missed the rest while writing this)
? awaiting for full health check.
I think they want solar panel deployment completed.

And a drone footage screenshot  ;)
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Rik ISS-fan on 12/12/2017 09:53 pm
Congrats to Arianespace and ESA on the success of VA-240.
;D Not Jet  :P :-X

(remove if not appropriate)
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Rik ISS-fan on 12/12/2017 09:57 pm
Some drone footage from CSG.
This is Jupiter range control center (the glass bole) and Satellite Preparation area (I forgot the abbreviation) S1

I hope ESA/Arianespace will publish this somewhere.
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Rik ISS-fan on 12/12/2017 10:10 pm
Round of applause and hugs.

And start of speeches.
I forgot my congrats.  :D
Well done EU/ESA, OHB/SSTL and Arianespace for another successful deployment of the Galileo system.

Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Rocket Science on 12/12/2017 10:11 pm
Success, congrats to all! :)
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: ZachS09 on 12/12/2017 10:15 pm
Sorry I was too early in my congrats; I wasn’t watching the webcast at that time.

But I’m still proud of Arianespace and ESA for getting another four Galileo sats into MEO.
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Rik ISS-fan on 12/12/2017 10:17 pm
EU representative speech (beter picture)

"I bet in a few years time GPS will be called American Galileo"
(I don't think so, but Galileo will be well known.)
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Rik ISS-fan on 12/12/2017 10:21 pm
"From April 2018 All cars that are delivered with navigation, will have to be Galileo (GNSS) compatible."
GSA (Galileo System Agency ?)
Some aplause in the background (people at range control posts)
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Rik ISS-fan on 12/12/2017 10:28 pm
Paul Verhoef.
Explanation of the long verification proces (refers to VS07: FOC-M1)
"It's time for a drink, I need one"  ;D

Edit: (my own explanation)
SpaceX calls a mission successful after they have deployed the satellite succesfuly
Arianespace normally awaits until acquisition of signal from the satellite(s) (one of the first steps of satellite start up).
With this Galileo launch, they waited until the health checks were completed, and they had verification the satellites are in the correct orbit. So they were really conservative during this launch. The drone footage was a nice distraction during the waiting period.
ZachS09's post was at the normal time Arianespace called a mission successful. So Zach timing was perfect.
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Rik ISS-fan on 12/12/2017 10:30 pm
He's thankful all "babies have been safely deployed in orbit"
Speech in English, France & German
Thankfull for the order of the 3th batch: 8sats + 4sats (awarded option)
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Rik ISS-fan on 12/12/2017 10:33 pm
Normaly he has a lot of words. But now it's to late for a long speech  ;D
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Rik ISS-fan on 12/12/2017 10:33 pm
Speech in France.
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Rik ISS-fan on 12/12/2017 10:38 pm
Closing remarks.
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Galactic Penguin SST on 12/12/2017 10:57 pm
To which orbital plane of the Galileo constellation are these 4 deployed in? A or B?
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Rik ISS-fan on 12/12/2017 11:19 pm
From the VA240 launch kit (http://www.arianespace.com/mission/ariane-flight-va240/): MEO Plane A (page 3)
So FOC-M8 (the next four Galileo satellites) wil go to Plane B. After this they have all slots in all three planes filled.
(26 satellites launched but FOC-M1 (Sat 5&6) in wrong orbit)
Most likely the two A62 launches will replace the IOC Galileo satellites. (or some with several failed clocks)
So Galileo will reach full operational state after the next Ariane 5 ES launch, but with pore reliability because several sats have failed clocks, unfortunately.

Another funny fact:
This launch used the 14M long Medium Fairing. (Ariane 6 will have two failing options 20m & 14m)
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: zubenelgenubi on 12/12/2017 11:32 pm
Congratulations to the entire launch campaign team!

And thank you's to Chris B and Rik ISS-fan for the launch thread coverage!
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Rik ISS-fan on 12/12/2017 11:48 pm
Also thanks to: FutureSpaceTourist, Yellowstone10 and northenarc

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZAN5ve00ao
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: catdlr on 12/13/2017 03:29 am
full coverage video....

Arianespace Flight VA240 / Galileo FOC-M7 / SAT 19-20-21-22


arianespace
Published on Dec 12, 2017

Arianespace has successfully launched satellites 19, 20, 21 and 22 in the Galileo constellation, using an Ariane 5 heavy launcher on behalf of the European Commission (DG GROW) and under a contract with the European Space Agency (ESA).

The launch took place on December 12, 2017 at 3:36 p.m. (local time) from the Guiana Space Center (CSG), Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana.

Today’s launch was the ninth from CSG for the Galileo satellite navigation system, and the second using the Ariane 5 ES version of this launch vehicle. Arianespace has now orbited a total of 22 Galileo satellites, using Soyuz and Ariane 5 launchers.

A last Ariane 5 ES will orbit four more Galileo satellites in 2018, then Ariane 6 will take over in 2020-2021.

Today’s launch was the 11th and final of 2017 for Arianespace, and the sixth during the year for Ariane 5, which also marked the 82nd successful mission in a row for the heavy-lift launcher.

https://youtu.be/v_971MYakv4?t=001

https://youtu.be/v_971MYakv4
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: jacqmans on 12/13/2017 05:59 am
Press Release

N°25-2017

Paris, 13 December 2017


Galileo launch brings navigation network close to completion

Europe has four more Galileo navigation satellites in the sky following their launch on an Ariane 5 rocket. After today’s success, only one more launch remains before the Galileo constellation is complete and delivering global coverage.

Ariane 5, operated by Arianespace under contract to ESA, lifted off from Europe’s Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana at 18:36 GMT (19:36 CET, 15:36 local time), carrying Galileo satellites 19–22. The first pair of 715 kg satellites was released almost 3 hours 36 minutes after liftoff, while the second pair separated 20 minutes later.

They were released into their target 22 922 km-altitude orbit by the dispenser atop the Ariane 5 upper stage. In the coming days, this quartet will be steered into their final working orbits. There, they will begin around six months of tests – performed by the European Global Navigation Satellite System Agency (GSA) – to check they are ready to join the working Galileo constellation.

This mission brings the Galileo system to 22 satellites. Initial Services began almost a year ago, on 15 December 2016.

“Today’s launch is another great achievement, taking us within one step of completing the constellation,” remarked Jan Wörner, ESA’s Director General

“It is a great achievement of our industrial partners OHB (DE) and SSTL (GB) for the satellites, as well as Thales-Alenia-Space (FR, IT) and Airbus Defense and Space (GB, FR) for the ground segment and all their subcontractors throughout Europe, that Europe now has a formidable global satellite navigation system with remarkable performance.

Paul Verhoef, ESA’s Director of Navigation, added: “ESA is the design agent, system engineer and procurement agent of Galileo on behalf of the European Commission. Galileo is now an operating reality, so, in July, operational oversight of the system was passed to the GSA.

“Accordingly, GSA took control of these satellites as soon as they separated from their launcher, with ESA maintaining an advisory role. This productive partnership will continue with the next Galileo launch, by Ariane 5 in mid-2018.

“Meanwhile, ESA is also working with the European Commission and GSA on dedicated research and development efforts and system design to begin the procurement of the Galileo Second Generation, along with other future navigation technologies.”

Next year’s launch of another quartet will bring the 24‑satellite Galileo constellation to the point of completion, plus two orbital spares.
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: jacqmans on 12/13/2017 06:11 am
December 12, 2017 

Arianespace’s winning formula for Galileo: 5 + 4 = 22

Lifting off at the exact moment set for the launch of Flight VA240, Arianespace’s Ariane 5 begins its ascent from the Spaceport with four Galileo navigation satellites.

The Galileo constellation increased by four spacecraft today following an Ariane 5 launch from the Spaceport in French Guiana – bringing the total number of European navigation satellites orbited by Arianespace to 22.

This afternoon mission, designated Flight VA240 in Arianespace’s launcher family numbering system, was performed from the Spaceport’s ELA-3 launch zone, with Ariane 5 deploying its four passengers during a mission lasting 3 hours, 55 minutes.

Flight VA240 was the second to utilize the workhorse Ariane 5 – supplied by production prime contractor ArianeGroup – in lofting operational Galileo satellites. It followed another four orbited by Arianespace on an Ariane 5 in 2016, and 14 others launched in pairs aboard the company’s Russian-built Soyuz vehicles during seven missions performed between 2011 and 2016.

11 Arianespace launches in 2017 with Ariane 5, Soyuz and Vega

Today’s launch wrapped up another successful year of activity for Arianespace, as noted by Chief Executive Officer Stéphane Israël during comments from the Spaceport. “Thanks to the year’s flawless operation of our launch vehicle family – six Ariane 5 flights, two with Soyuz and three by Vega – our track record for 2017 is once again outstanding,” he said.


Flight VA240 was Arianespace’s 11th mission in 2017, and wrapped up another busy year of activity for the launch services company.

The four satellites carried on Flight VA240 were named after European children who created artwork in a Galileo drawing competition on the themes of space and aeronautics. As a result, the latest navigation spacecraft in Galileo’s constellation are called Nicole, Zofia, Alexandre and Irina – named after youngsters from the European countries of Austria, Poland, Portugal and Romania, respectively.

For Flight VA240, the four Galileo satellites weighed approximately 714 kg. each, and were deployed from a dispenser system that released the passengers in two sets during an interval of 20 minutes. The Ariane 5’s overall payload lift performance to medium Earth orbit (MEO) was set at 3,283 kg.

The spacecraft were built by prime contractor OHB System in Bremen, Germany, with the payloads for each satellite supplied by U.K.-based SSTL (Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd), which is 99% owned by Airbus Defence and Space.

Galileo: Europe’s civilian-controlled navigation system

As Europe’s own global navigation satellite system, Galileo is operated under civilian control, offering guaranteed high-precision positioning around the world. The Galileo program is funded and owned by the European Union. The European Commission has overall responsibility for the program – with Flight VA240 performed by Arianespace on behalf of the European Commission under contract with the European Space Agency (ESA).

Following today’s launch, the GSA (European GNSS Agency, in charge of managing and operating the EGNOS and Galileo satellite navigation systems for the European Union), became responsible for operating these satellites after their separation from the launcher. Satellite positioning operations and system operation will be carried out in conjunction with ESA.

Looking ahead to next year, Arianespace’s 2018 launch activity will begin on January 25 with an Ariane 5 mission to geostationary transfer orbit (GTO). This mission will carry two relay satellites: SES-14 for the Luxemburg-based operator SES; and Al Yah 3 for Al Yah Satellite Communications Company, located in the United Arab Emirates at Abu Dhabi.

http://www.arianespace.com/mission-update/arianespaces-winning-formula-for-galileo-5-4-22/
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: jacqmans on 12/13/2017 06:18 am
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: jacqmans on 12/13/2017 09:13 am
ESA photos
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 12/13/2017 09:34 am
More ESA photos
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 12/13/2017 07:37 pm
And yet more from ESA
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Jester on 12/14/2017 12:54 pm
Without you know what
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: pargoo on 12/14/2017 08:47 pm
     That's a particularly nice one :)
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: calapine on 12/16/2017 11:08 pm
Regarding the naming convention

Galileo-FOC FM18 is GSAT0218 is Galileo SAT 22 is Irina.

Is that correct and did I miss any other name that is used? (Thanks)
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: calapine on 12/17/2017 06:36 pm
Rocketlaunch in the mist  ;)

Image source: http://www.forum-conquete-spatiale.fr/t18914p50-ariane-5-va240-galileo-19-22-12-12-2017
Title: Re: LIVE: Ariane 5 VA240 - Galileo-FOC FM015-018 - December 12, 2017 (18:36 UTC)
Post by: Lewis007 on 12/19/2017 06:54 am
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-yS61-jigg