Author Topic: LIVE: Sea Launch - XM-4 - October 30 (Attempt 2) (Read 51828 times)

anik · « **on:** 08/30/2006 06:57 pm »

Quote from http://www.sea-launch.com/news.htm

"We are now preparing for our next mission, in October"

anik · « **Reply #1 on:** 09/04/2006 09:38 pm »

The Odyssey Launch Platform has returned to Long Beach today!...

sammie · « **Reply #2 on:** 09/06/2006 09:00 am »

XM-1 was named Rock, XM-2 was named Roll, any idea what XM-3 and XM-4 will be named after?

MKremer · « **Reply #3 on:** 09/06/2006 09:21 am »

Rhythm + Blues, or Hip + Hop ?

Bean Kenobi · « **Reply #4 on:** 09/06/2006 11:28 am »

We already know that since XM-3 launch : it's Rythm and Blues

vt_hokie · « **Reply #5 on:** 09/06/2006 04:30 pm »

XM-4 is their first Loral 1300, if I remember correctly.

censored account · « **Reply #6 on:** 09/07/2006 02:37 am »

Quote

vt_hokie - 6/9/2006 9:17 AM

XM-4 is their first Loral 1300, if I remember correctly.

Nope, XM-4 is a Boeing BSS bird, XM-5 (?) will be a Loral build.

Bob

vt_hokie · « **Reply #7 on:** 09/07/2006 02:43 am »

Ah, okay, thanks! I knew they had a Loral bird coming up somewhere...

So, they're already up to XM-5? I don't see why they'd need five sats, although I have no idea what kind of shape their current operational satellites are in.

censored account · « **Reply #8 on:** 09/07/2006 03:00 am »

Quote

vt_hokie - 6/9/2006 7:30 PM

Ah, okay, thanks! I knew they had a Loral bird coming up somewhere...

So, they're already up to XM-5? I don't see why they'd need five sats, although I have no idea what kind of shape their current operational satellites are in.

If they do build #5 they might keep it as a "on ground" spare. It can take up to 3 years to go from contract signing to having a flight ready satellite so who really knows what the long term thinking maybe on #5. It could be as a replacement for XM-1 (nearing its tenth year of service).

Bob

Skyrocket · « **Reply #9 on:** 09/09/2006 05:16 pm »

Quote

vt_hokie - 7/9/2006 4:30 AM

Ah, okay, thanks! I knew they had a Loral bird coming up somewhere...

So, they're already up to XM-5? I don't see why they'd need five sats, although I have no idea what kind of shape their current operational satellites are in.

XM-5 is built as a ground spare and will be launched on need

Gunter

anik · « **Reply #10 on:** 09/19/2006 08:43 pm »

Information about XM-4 mission
http://www.sea-launch.com/current_launch.htm

anik · « **Reply #11 on:** 09/23/2006 07:23 pm »

Delivery of XM-4 satellite...
http://www.sea-launch.com/mission_xm-4/sat_delivery/sat_delivery.html

anik · « **Reply #12 on:** 09/26/2006 12:31 pm »

The preliminary launch date of Zenit-3SL rocket with XM-4 satellite is October 22...

anik · « **Reply #13 on:** 10/10/2006 04:45 pm »

Zenit-3SL rocket was rolled out onto the Odyssey Launch Platform for final tests today!...

anik · « **Reply #14 on:** 10/10/2006 05:21 pm »

Ah, Zenit-3SL rocket was also erected today!...

I assume that this launch will be on October 26-27...

edkyle99 · « **Reply #15 on:** 10/12/2006 04:38 am »

This is listed as Zenit 3SL No. 22 at

http://msdb.honeywell-tsi.com/launches.asp

- Ed Kyle

anik · « **Reply #16 on:** 10/14/2006 04:26 pm »

The Odyssey Launch Platform is at Pacific ocean from October 12...

Wisi · « **Reply #17 on:** 10/15/2006 11:31 pm »

Is the launch date already set? Didn't fint it on SeaLaunch page. Does anybody know?

Bean Kenobi · « **Reply #18 on:** 10/16/2006 10:50 am »

OrbiReport (www.orbireport.com) speaks about Oct 26...

anik · « **Reply #19 on:** 10/16/2006 11:03 am »

The launch date is October 27, according to my source...

anik · « **Reply #20 on:** 10/16/2006 08:18 pm »

Quote

anik - 16/10/2006 2:46 PM

The launch date is October 27, according to my source...

Ah, 16:49 PDT on October 26 or 23:49 UTC on October 26, or 03:49 Moscow Summer Time on October 27...

Sea Launch Prepares for the Launch of XM-4
http://www.sea-launch.com/news_releases/nr_061016.html

"Long Beach, Calif., October 16, 2006 – The Sea Launch team is preparing for its fifth mission of 2006, the launch of the XM-4 satellite. The Odyssey Launch Platform and the Sea Launch Commander have departed from Home Port in Long Beach, California, and are on their way to the launch site on the Equator to begin launch operations. Liftoff is planned at the opening of a 58-minute launch window beginning at 4:49pm Pacific Daylight Time (23:49 GMT) on October 26.

The Sea Launch vessels are sailing approximately 3,000 miles to the equatorial launch site in international waters of the Pacific Ocean at 154 degrees West Longitude. Upon arrival, the launch team will initiate a 72-hour countdown, ballasting the Launch Platform 65 feet, to launch depth, and performing final tests on the launch system and the spacecraft. A Zenit-3SL vehicle will lift the 5,193 kg (11,448 lbs.) XM-4 satellite to geosynchronous transfer orbit, on its way to a final orbital position of 115 degrees West Longitude.

Built by the Boeing Satellite Development Center, the Boeing 702 spacecraft carries a high-power S-band Digital Audio Radio Service (DARS) payload built by Alcatel Alenia Space. Like the three XM satellites currently operating in orbit, XM-4 will accommodate XM’s direct broadcast of radio programming to cars, homes and portable radios throughout the continental United States and parts of Canada.

The XM-4 satellite will have 18 kilowatts of total power at the beginning of life on orbit. Specified for a 15-year lifespan, Sea Launch’s direct insertion into equatorial orbit is designed to yield additional years of service life. This is Sea Launch’s fourth launch for XM Satellite Radio, completing previous XM missions in March 2001, May 2001 and February 2005."

Payload Rollout from the Payload Processing Facility to the Sea Launch Commander
http://www.sea-launch.com/mission_xm-4/payload_rollout/payload_rollout.html

Rocket Transfer from the Ship to the Odyssey Launch Platform
http://www.sea-launch.com/mission_xm-4/ilv_transfer/ilv_transfer.html

anik · « **Reply #21 on:** 10/17/2006 06:36 pm »

Rocket Rollout and Erection on launch pad for final tests
http://www.sea-launch.com/mission_xm-4/ilv_erect/ilv_erect.html

Departure of the Odyssey Launch Platform
http://www.sea-launch.com/mission_xm-4/lp_depart/lp_depart.html

Departure of the Sea Launch Commander
http://www.sea-launch.com/mission_xm-4/acs_depart/acs_depart.html

jacqmans · « **Reply #22 on:** 10/24/2006 03:39 pm »

XM-4 Mission Album

http://www.sea-launch.com/mission_xm-4/mission_album/page1/page1.html

http://www.sea-launch.com/mission_xm-4/mission_album/page2/page2.html

http://www.sea-launch.com/mission_xm-4/mission_album/page3/page3.html

http://www.sea-launch.com/mission_xm-4/mission_album/page4/page4.html

http://www.sea-launch.com/mission_xm-4/mission_album/page5/page5.html

http://www.sea-launch.com/mission_xm-4/mission_album/page6/page6.html

anik · « **Reply #23 on:** 10/24/2006 04:12 pm »

The Odyssey Launch Platform and the Sea Launch Commander have arrived at equatorial launch site!...

anik · « **Reply #24 on:** 10/24/2006 07:05 pm »

Sea Launch Begins Countdown for XM-4 Launch
http://www.sea-launch.com/news_releases/nr_061024.html

Long Beach, Calif., October 24, 2006 – The Sea Launch team has initiated a 72-hour countdown in preparation for the launch of the XM-4 broadcast satellite on October 26. Liftoff is planned at the opening of a 58-minute launch window at 4:49 pm Pacific Daylight Time (23:49 GMT).

With launch site operations underway at 154 degrees West Longitude on the Equator, the Sea Launch Commander is now stationed alongside the Odyssey, periodically connected by a "link bridge" during launch preparations. Tomorrow, a day before launch, the team will erect the Zenit-3SL rocket onto the launch pad. Final tests on the launch system and the spacecraft will lead up to the terminal count for liftoff.

The launch platform will be evacuated, with all personnel positioned on the ship, three miles uprange from the platform, during final preparations for liftoff. At launch, the rocket will lift the 5,193 kg (11,448 lbs.) XM-4 satellite to an optimized geosynchronous transfer orbit (GTO), on its way to a final orbital position of 115 degrees West Longitude.

Built by the Boeing Satellite Development Center, the Boeing 702 spacecraft carries a high-power S-band Digital Audio Radio Service (DARS) payload provided by Alcatel Alenia Space. Like the three XM satellites currently in orbit, XM-4 will broadcast XM's radio programming to over 7 million subscribers in cars, homes and portable radios throughout the continental United States and Canada.

The XM-4 satellite will have 18 kilowatts of total power at the beginning of life on orbit. Specified for a 15-year lifespan, Sea Launch’s direct insertion into equatorial orbit is designed to yield additional years of service life. This is Sea Launch's fourth launch for XM Satellite Radio, successfully completing previous missions in March 2001, May 2001 and February 2005.

Sea Launch will carry live satellite feed and streaming video of the XM-4 mission, beginning at 4:35 pm PDT (23:35 GMT).

Transponder coordinates for downlinking this feed will be posted at: http://www.boeing.com/nosearch/sealaunch/broadcast.html

A simultaneous webcast may be viewed at: http://www.sea-launch.com/current_index_webcast.html

jacqmans · « **Reply #25 on:** 10/25/2006 01:31 pm »

http://www.sea-launch.com/mission_xm-4/mission_album/page7/page7.html

Arrival at Equatorial Launch Site, countdown begins:

http://www.sea-launch.com/mission_xm-4/l-72/l-72.html

anik · « **Reply #26 on:** 10/25/2006 07:51 pm »

Quote

anik - 24/10/2006 10:48 PM

Tomorrow, a day before launch, the team will erect the Zenit-3SL rocket onto the launch pad. Final tests on the launch system and the spacecraft will lead up to the terminal count for liftoff

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #27 on:** 10/25/2006 10:00 pm »

Moved to live event thread for the live coverage.

All the best Bob!

jacqmans · « **Reply #28 on:** 10/26/2006 03:31 am »

http://www.sea-launch.com/mission_xm-4/mission_album/page8/page8.html

http://www.sea-launch.com/mission_xm-4/mission_album/page9/page9.html

jacqmans · « **Reply #29 on:** 10/26/2006 12:34 pm »

http://www.sea-launch.com/current_index_webcast.html

and webcam: http://www.navigon.net/sl/

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #30 on:** 10/26/2006 04:13 pm »

We'll be recording this launch as per usual.

Schu · « **Reply #31 on:** 10/26/2006 05:29 pm »

Whats the PST for the launch? I am new here and I do not see any live feed

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #32 on:** 10/26/2006 05:34 pm »

Quote

Schu - 26/10/2006 6:12 PM

Whats the PST for the launch? I am new here and I do not see any live feed

Not for a number of hours yet. Welcome to the site.

4:49 pm Pacific Daylight Time

Stowbridge · « **Reply #33 on:** 10/26/2006 06:23 pm »

Live coverage isn't due to start until about 45 minutes to launch.

DaveS · « **Reply #34 on:** 10/26/2006 06:47 pm »

Quote

Stowbridge - 26/10/2006 8:06 PM

Live coverage isn't due to start until about 45 minutes to launch.

Less than that. Live coverage starts at 2335 UTC(4:35 PDT), with the launch being at 2349 UTC(4:49 PDT). THat makes it 14 minutes prior to launch, not 45.

censored account · « **Reply #35 on:** 10/26/2006 07:53 pm »

Thanks all,

I'm at the Brewster ground station for this launch (Brewster Washington). L-4:13:00 and couting!

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #36 on:** 10/26/2006 08:34 pm »

Quote

bobrogg - 26/10/2006 8:36 PM

Thanks all,

I'm at the Brewster ground station for this launch (Brewster Washinton). L-4:13:00 and couting!

Cool. Anything you are able to provide by way of updates would be brilliant.

Launch preview on site in one hour. We'll start live coverage here when there's any updates of note.

UK Shuttle Clan · « **Reply #37 on:** 10/26/2006 08:39 pm »

Go Sea Launch! I'll stay up late for this one.

censored account · « **Reply #38 on:** 10/26/2006 08:52 pm »

Weather is go, spacecraft loads are go, range is go.

L-03:14:00 and counting

Bob

censored account · « **Reply #39 on:** 10/26/2006 08:54 pm »

The poll for ILV tanking will be in 12 mins

Pete at Edwards · « **Reply #40 on:** 10/26/2006 09:07 pm »

Great on the weather. Sure has been a great opening number of launches by this company.

censored account · « **Reply #41 on:** 10/26/2006 09:36 pm »

The go for ILV tanking has been given.

L-02:30:00

censored account · « **Reply #42 on:** 10/26/2006 10:07 pm »

L-02:00:00 and counting.

censored account · « **Reply #43 on:** 10/26/2006 10:10 pm »

All system are go, no issues are being worked at this time

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #44 on:** 10/26/2006 10:11 pm »

Smooth count, loving the updates

Launch preview on site.

Mark Max Q · « **Reply #45 on:** 10/26/2006 10:12 pm »

Yeah, looking forward to this. Appreciate the updates Bob, it helps when the webcast is so short.

censored account · « **Reply #46 on:** 10/26/2006 10:49 pm »

L-01:20:00 and counting, all is well.......

Schu · « **Reply #47 on:** 10/26/2006 10:51 pm »

nice ^_^

censored account · « **Reply #48 on:** 10/26/2006 11:07 pm »

Final weather report is go, ILV loads are go, range is go. L-01:00:00 and counting

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #49 on:** 10/26/2006 11:13 pm »

Webcasts:

www.boeing.com/nosearch/sealaunch/broadcast.html.

www.sea-launch.com/current_index_webcast.html.

Andy USA · « **Reply #50 on:** 10/26/2006 11:16 pm »

Thanks for the updates Bob. Sure beats listening to whatever music that is on the webcast right now

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #51 on:** 10/26/2006 11:18 pm »

Quote

Andy USA - 26/10/2006 11:59 PM

Thanks for the updates Bob. Sure beats listening to whatever music that is on the webcast right now

Some serious Sea Launch Jazz. Nice!

censored account · « **Reply #52 on:** 10/26/2006 11:22 pm »

L-00:45:00 All systems are go. My last report will be @ L-00:30:00 (must focus on the task at hand).

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #53 on:** 10/26/2006 11:24 pm »

Quote

bobrogg - 27/10/2006 12:05 AM

L-00:45:00 All systems are go. My last report will be @ L-00:30:00 (must focus on the task at hand).

Thanks Bob - and of course we understand. Really appreciate the updates and we'll take the handover to the webcast.

Have a good launch!

makims · « **Reply #54 on:** 10/26/2006 11:25 pm »

Hi,I just join to the forum.Let's enjoy Sea Launch:)

censored account · « **Reply #55 on:** 10/26/2006 11:33 pm »

Final clearance for launch given, L-00:034:00 See you all post launch.

Bob

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #56 on:** 10/26/2006 11:37 pm »

censored account · « **Reply #57 on:** 10/26/2006 11:38 pm »

L-00:30:00 all go for launch

elmarko · « **Reply #58 on:** 10/26/2006 11:46 pm »

Quote

Chris Bergin - 27/10/2006 12:01 AM

Quote
Andy USA - 26/10/2006 11:59 PM

Thanks for the updates Bob. Sure beats listening to whatever music that is on the webcast right now

Some serious Sea Launch Jazz. Nice!

Jingle bells.... niceeeeee.

They don't make them like The Fast Show anymore.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #59 on:** 10/26/2006 11:48 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #60 on:** 10/26/2006 11:51 pm »

Coming up on L-15 mins. Webcast will be starting up soon.

bsegal · « **Reply #61 on:** 10/26/2006 11:52 pm »

When's the webcast supposed to start?

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #62 on:** 10/26/2006 11:53 pm »

Quote

bsegal - 27/10/2006 12:35 AM

When's the webcast supposed to start?

Now

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #63 on:** 10/26/2006 11:56 pm »

All go for flight. T-12 minutes.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #64 on:** 10/26/2006 11:57 pm »

Erector being retracted.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #65 on:** 10/26/2006 11:58 pm »

T-10 minutes and counting.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #66 on:** 10/26/2006 11:59 pm »

T-8 mins and counting.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #67 on:** 10/27/2006 12:02 am »

Final polls being taken.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #68 on:** 10/27/2006 12:03 am »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #69 on:** 10/27/2006 12:04 am »

T-3 mins and counting. All go for launch.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #70 on:** 10/27/2006 12:05 am »

Jim Mills confirms all go for launch. T-2mins. No issues with weather or range.

Vehicle is green.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #71 on:** 10/27/2006 12:07 am »

Readiness status:

HOLD!

T-60 seconds.

DaveS · « **Reply #72 on:** 10/27/2006 12:07 am »

Abort!!

HKS · « **Reply #73 on:** 10/27/2006 12:07 am »

Launch abort...

elmarko · « **Reply #74 on:** 10/27/2006 12:09 am »

That's some abrupt coverage right there.

"Yeah, that's an abort. Anyway, see you, bye!"

Maybe she wanted to get home early tonight.

hektor · « **Reply #75 on:** 10/27/2006 12:09 am »

Seems that I heard a voice with a Russian accent talking about something not being disconnected...

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #76 on:** 10/27/2006 12:09 am »

There was a disconnect at some point at T-60 seconds, or a failure to disconnect. Will try and go over the recording to catch the exact issues (unless Bob beats me to it).

Jim · « **Reply #77 on:** 10/27/2006 12:11 am »

I think "abort" is the wrong term

Jim · « **Reply #78 on:** 10/27/2006 12:12 am »

Autocoupler failed to disconnect

edkyle99 · « **Reply #79 on:** 10/27/2006 12:13 am »

Quote

elmarko - 26/10/2006 6:52 PM

That's some abrupt coverage right there.

"Yeah, that's an abort. Anyway, see you, bye!"

Maybe she wanted to get home early tonight.

That has happened before with Sea Launch and other commercial launch providers. Very annoying, to say the least. The viewer is left wondering why. "Are they hiding something?" Etc.

There are probably some real contractural or otherwise legal reasons for the video shutdown.

- Ed Kyle

edkyle99 · « **Reply #80 on:** 10/27/2006 12:16 am »

Quote

Jim - 26/10/2006 6:54 PM

I think "abort" is the wrong term

Someone on the Sea Launch net used the term "Automated Launch Abort", then said "go to abort script five".

But yes, I tend to think of an abort as a shutdown of an already-started, or starting, propulsion system.

- Ed Kyle

just-nick · « **Reply #81 on:** 10/27/2006 12:18 am »

Quote

edkyle99 - 26/10/2006 4:56 PM

That has happened before with Sea Launch and other commercial launch providers. Very annoying, to say the least. The viewer is left wondering why. "Are they hiding something?" Etc.

There are probably some real contractural or otherwise legal reasons for the video shutdown.

- Ed Kyle

Its an interesting contrast, SeaLaunch's minimalist coverage, with the sort of corporate promotions events that I've seen on some Boeing launches where an attractive host interviews people at a faux news desk setting for an hour or so. Almost felt infomercial-esque. New, from RonCo, the Launch Master 5000!

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #82 on:** 10/27/2006 12:21 am »

I've bought three of those Launch Master 3000s

Erectors still down...

Martin FL · « **Reply #83 on:** 10/27/2006 12:22 am »

It's a near one hour launch window. Can't they recycle for today?

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #84 on:** 10/27/2006 12:25 am »

Here's the video of the scrub from T-4 mins.

http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=5022&start=1&posts=1

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #85 on:** 10/27/2006 12:27 am »

Quote

Martin FL - 27/10/2006 1:05 AM

It's a near one hour launch window. Can't they recycle for today?

Doesn't look like it:

"Sea Launch today halted the launch of the XM-4 communications satellite. Following the direction to stop the countdown, the launch team immediately implemented system safing and securing operations, according to procedure."

Jim · « **Reply #86 on:** 10/27/2006 12:27 am »

Quote

edkyle99 - 26/10/2006 7:56 PM

Quote
elmarko - 26/10/2006 6:52 PM

That's some abrupt coverage right there.

"Yeah, that's an abort. Anyway, see you, bye!"

Maybe she wanted to get home early tonight.

That has happened before with Sea Launch and other commercial launch providers. Very annoying, to say the least. The viewer is left wondering why. "Are they hiding something?" Etc.

There are probably some real contractural or otherwise legal reasons for the video shutdown.

- Ed Kyle

No $$, Satellite time and ...........

ITAR

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #87 on:** 10/27/2006 12:35 am »

Erector going back up (some sparks or whatever at the bottom of the vehicle is a bit strange).

Danderman · « **Reply #88 on:** 10/27/2006 12:51 am »

Quote

edkyle99 - 26/10/2006 4:59 PM

Someone on the Sea Launch net used the term "Automated Launch Abort", then said "go to abort script five".

But yes, I tend to think of an abort as a shutdown of an already-started, or starting, propulsion system.

FWIW, Ukrainian based systems tend to have a totally automatic launch sequence starting 60 seconds out. The only option for the mission controllers is to abort the automated sequence.

censored account · « **Reply #89 on:** 10/27/2006 12:54 am »

Damnit!....... I cannot comment on what happen (sorry) please standby for the new launch date.

Bob

Jim · « **Reply #90 on:** 10/27/2006 01:10 am »

ITAR right?

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #91 on:** 10/27/2006 01:21 am »

Erector back in place.

Jim · « **Reply #92 on:** 10/27/2006 01:31 am »

Quote

Danderman - 26/10/2006 8:34 PM
FWIW, Ukrainian based systems tend to have a totally automatic launch sequence starting 60 seconds out. The only option for the mission controllers is to abort the automated sequence.

It is not because it is Ukrainian, but because the Zenit was designed to be operated by conscript soldiers and be prepared and launched quickly before US reconsats flew over

Flightstar · « **Reply #93 on:** 10/27/2006 02:47 am »

Unlucky Sea Launch. Not a usual issue with you guys, so you'll correct it.

jacqmans · « **Reply #94 on:** 10/27/2006 03:29 am »

Sea Launch Scrubs Today's Launch of the XM-4 Satellite
Long Beach, Calif., October 26, 2006 – Due to off-nominal data from its automated launch support equipment, Sea Launch today halted the launch of the XM-4 broadcast satellite. Following the direction to stop the countdown, the launch team immediately implemented system safing and securing operations, according to procedure. Both the spacecraft and the launch vehicle are in excellent condition.

Sea Launch will provide additional information, as available, on the Sea Launch website at www.sea-launch.com. We will also record the latest status on the Sea Launch Hot Line, at 800.995.4123.

Launch Fan · « **Reply #95 on:** 10/27/2006 03:35 am »

That was already on this thread Jacqmans.

censored account · « **Reply #96 on:** 10/27/2006 03:51 am »

Quote

Jim - 26/10/2006 5:53 PM

ITAR right?

Yes, that and loss of employment for being an unauthorized news source

Bob

anik · « **Reply #97 on:** 10/27/2006 12:41 pm »

According to my source, the preliminary launch date is October 30 (at the same time - 23:49 UTC - obviously)... The reason of yesterday's postponing: one of the pre-launch operations with DM-SL upper stage was not finished on-time...

jacqmans · « **Reply #98 on:** 10/27/2006 04:52 pm »

10/27/2006 Korolev, Moscow region.

The launch of a US telecommunications spacecraft XM-4 from a sea-going launch site – Sea Launch system - currently stationed in the Pacific, that was slated for October 27,2006, at 03:48 Moscow Daylight Saving Time has been postponed because of problems found in the fuelling system for the launch vehicle. The spacecraft and the launch vehicle are in good working order. After the cause of the contingency is remedied, a decision will be made on whether it will be possible to proceed with the launch preparations and launching of the communications satellite.
RSC Energia is the prime company for the rocket segment of the Sea Launch system is responsible for its processing within the system, and, together with its subcontractors in the industry manufactures and operates the upper stage DM-SL as the third stage of Zenit-3SL integrated launch vehicle.

ras391 · « **Reply #99 on:** 10/28/2006 02:26 am »

Launch rescheduled

The Sea Launch team has determined the cause of the off-nominal data received from our automated launch support equipment that resulted in a halt to the launch countdown on Oct. 26. The team has implemented corrective action and is ready to proceed with launch operations. We plan to re-start the countdown for another launch attempt of the XM-4 satellite on Monday, Oct. 30. The 58-minute launch window will open at 3:49 pm PST (23:49 GMT). Our launch coverage will begin at 3:35pm PST (23:35 GMT). Please check the Sea Launch website at www.sea-launch.com for the latest status on this mission.

anik · « **Reply #100 on:** 10/29/2006 06:42 pm »

A day before launch Zenit-3SL rocket is erected again onto the launch pad...

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #101 on:** 10/29/2006 07:22 pm »

That's hopeful

sammie · « **Reply #102 on:** 10/30/2006 07:36 pm »

any updates on the new launch date? Bob, anik, anybody?

censored account · « **Reply #103 on:** 10/30/2006 07:48 pm »

Coming up on L-3 hrs, all systems go for launch. I'm at a different console today and will not be able to give many updates. Please wish us luck.

Bob

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #104 on:** 10/30/2006 08:00 pm »

Quote

bobrogg - 30/10/2006 8:31 PM

Coming up on L-3 hrs, all systems go for launch. I'm at a different console today and will not be able to give many updates. Please wish us luck.

Bob

All the best Bob - and we can literally follow your previous posts in the count for this attempt (providing all is go)....then to the webcast.

jacqmans · « **Reply #105 on:** 10/30/2006 08:01 pm »

Hello Bob, Good luck with the launch, we will be watching :-)

and any update you give will be great...

jacqmans · « **Reply #106 on:** 10/30/2006 08:04 pm »

XM-4 Mission Coverage

Sea Launch is now preparing for the launch of the XM-4 satellite on Monday, October 30, at the opening of a 58-minute launch window at 3:49pm PST (23:49 GMT). Sea Launch coverage of this mission will be approximately an hour-and-a-half in length. The broadcast program will be carried via streaming video on this site, ( http://www.sea-launch.com/current_index_webcast.html )beginning at 3:35 pm PST (23:35 GMT) - 14 minutes before liftoff - and will continue through the completion of the mission. Following brief executive remarks, the program will end.

http://www.sea-launch.com/mission_xm-4/mission_album/page13/page13.html

sammie · « **Reply #107 on:** 10/30/2006 08:51 pm »

Thanks bob (and Jaques), and good luck, GO Zenit-3SL

just-nick · « **Reply #108 on:** 10/30/2006 09:11 pm »

Anyone know the launch wind speed limits (or sea state) for the Sea Launch Zenit?

On the webcam it looks like the sea is showing just a few scattered whitecaps, but I wonder how high they can go? I checked my Sea Launch user's guide but didn't find any launch constraint information there.

--Nick

edkyle99 · « **Reply #109 on:** 10/30/2006 10:07 pm »

Signs of LOX loading at 22:42 UTC.

- Ed Kyle

jacqmans · « **Reply #110 on:** 10/30/2006 10:31 pm »

jacqmans · « **Reply #111 on:** 10/30/2006 10:48 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #112 on:** 10/30/2006 10:54 pm »

Really appreciate the help with the images

Webcast starting.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #113 on:** 10/30/2006 10:55 pm »

T-13 minutes and counting. No issues.

jacqmans · « **Reply #114 on:** 10/30/2006 10:55 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #115 on:** 10/30/2006 10:56 pm »

T-11 mins and counting. Erector being retracted for storage.

jacqmans · « **Reply #116 on:** 10/30/2006 10:57 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #117 on:** 10/30/2006 10:58 pm »

Sea Launch boss Rob Peckham notes they are working no issues in the count.

T-10 mins and counting.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #118 on:** 10/30/2006 11:02 pm »

T-6 mins. Final reviews ongoing. Poll to come shortly.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #119 on:** 10/30/2006 11:03 pm »

T-4 mins. All nominal on the count.

jacqmans · « **Reply #120 on:** 10/30/2006 11:04 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #121 on:** 10/30/2006 11:07 pm »

Coming up to the point where we had a scrub last time out.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #122 on:** 10/30/2006 11:07 pm »

T-30 seconds.

DaveS · « **Reply #123 on:** 10/30/2006 11:08 pm »

Lift-off!

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #124 on:** 10/30/2006 11:08 pm »

LAUNCH!!!

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #125 on:** 10/30/2006 11:09 pm »

Pitch and roll nominal.

+60 seconds. Max Q

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #126 on:** 10/30/2006 11:09 pm »

First stage seperation.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #127 on:** 10/30/2006 11:12 pm »

+200 seconds. Nominal flight. Fairing sep.

jacqmans · « **Reply #128 on:** 10/30/2006 11:12 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #129 on:** 10/30/2006 11:13 pm »

Next event: second stage shutdown and sep.

jacqmans · « **Reply #130 on:** 10/30/2006 11:13 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #131 on:** 10/30/2006 11:14 pm »

T+6mins. Still in the second stage burn.

Flight nominal.

Second Stage shutdown.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #132 on:** 10/30/2006 11:16 pm »

Second stage seperation.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #133 on:** 10/30/2006 11:17 pm »

Block DM First burn.

jacqmans · « **Reply #134 on:** 10/30/2006 11:17 pm »

Danderman · « **Reply #135 on:** 10/30/2006 11:17 pm »

What is this "mobile ground station" they were referring to?

jacqmans · « **Reply #136 on:** 10/30/2006 11:20 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #137 on:** 10/30/2006 11:21 pm »

Block DM shutdown for the first burn. Now into a 30 minute coast phase.

T+14 mins.

jacqmans · « **Reply #138 on:** 10/30/2006 11:25 pm »

censored account · « **Reply #139 on:** 10/30/2006 11:31 pm »

WHOOOO HOOOO! I get to go on vacation now!

Bob

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #140 on:** 10/30/2006 11:36 pm »

Quote

bobrogg - 31/10/2006 12:14 AM

WHOOOO HOOOO! I get to go on vacation now!

Bob

And an increased share price if Paula and that Sea Launch guy keep patting themselves on the back anymore

"We have the best in the world"

"Yes we do."

"I agree"

Congrats Bob!

Jackson · « **Reply #141 on:** 10/30/2006 11:38 pm »

Well done Sea Launch and well done Bob

Quote

Chris Bergin - 30/10/2006 6:19 PM

And an increased share price if Paula and that Sea Launch guy keep patting themselves on the back anymore

"We have the best in the world"

"Yes we do."

"I agree"

Yeah, that was funny.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #142 on:** 10/30/2006 11:40 pm »

Paula is great though. Really think she gives very good coverage.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #143 on:** 10/30/2006 11:45 pm »

7 mins to the end of the coast phase - ahead of the second burn of the Block DM.

edkyle99 · « **Reply #144 on:** 10/30/2006 11:46 pm »

Quote

Jackson - 30/10/2006 6:21 PM

Well done Sea Launch ....

It isn't over quite yet. One more DMSL burn pending.

- Ed Kyle

Andy L · « **Reply #145 on:** 10/30/2006 11:46 pm »

Nice work Bob! Pass on our congratulations to anyone there within earshot. Of course, we await spacecraft sep first

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #146 on:** 10/30/2006 11:49 pm »

http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=5078&start=1&posts=1 <--Launch replay.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #147 on:** 10/30/2006 11:50 pm »

2 mins left in the coast.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #148 on:** 10/30/2006 11:52 pm »

Into the second and final Block DM burn.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #149 on:** 10/30/2006 11:53 pm »

T+45 mins.

4 mins remaining in the burn.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #150 on:** 10/30/2006 11:57 pm »

Approaching the west coast of Africa, Block DM Burn shutdown in 60 seconds.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #151 on:** 10/30/2006 11:58 pm »

Block DM second burn completed. T+50 mins.

10 minutes to spacecraft seperation.

George CA · « **Reply #152 on:** 10/31/2006 12:05 am »

Woo hoo, they are using the 702 seperation system. Big fan of that

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #153 on:** 10/31/2006 12:06 am »

Three mins to seperation.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #154 on:** 10/31/2006 12:09 am »

Spacecraft Seperation.

Many congrats to all involved

censored account · « **Reply #155 on:** 10/31/2006 12:11 am »

Thanks all! Time for me to go home! SPACECRAFT AOS!!!!!!!!!!!!

censored account · « **Reply #156 on:** 10/31/2006 02:19 am »

Because XM announced this at the post launch party I can tell you all here that Sea Launch has the contract for the XM-5 launch. Time and date to be determined.

It's all good........

Bob

censored account · « **Reply #157 on:** 10/31/2006 02:33 am »

Liftoff photo

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #158 on:** 10/31/2006 02:35 am »

Quote

bobrogg - 31/10/2006 3:02 AM

Because XM announced this at the post launch party I can tell you all here that Sea Launch has the contract for the XM-5 launch. Time and date to be determined.

It's all good........

Bob

Yeah, I managed to record the post flight conference with Rob Peckham and the XM and Boeing guys. Will place some quotes into the current article.

censored account · « **Reply #159 on:** 10/31/2006 02:41 am »

Launch photo 2 (ACS view)

censored account · « **Reply #160 on:** 10/31/2006 02:43 am »

Orbit Injection

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #161 on:** 10/31/2006 02:44 am »

GREAT photos! Much better than the rubbish screenshot we got from the webcast. Credit Sea Launch? I'd like to use it in the modified article I'm writing on the launch

censored account · « **Reply #162 on:** 10/31/2006 02:46 am »

Quote

Chris Bergin - 30/10/2006 7:27 PM

GREAT photos! Much better than the rubbish screenshot we got from the webcast. Credit Sea Launch? I'd like to use it in the modified article I'm writing on the launch

Yes, please credit Sea Launch for the photos.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #163 on:** 10/31/2006 03:13 am »

Done and done. Article on the news site. Thanks.

Will upload the post flight conference and place it on the launch video link.

Thomas ESA · « **Reply #164 on:** 10/31/2006 05:01 am »

Good work Sea Launch!

jacqmans · « **Reply #165 on:** 10/31/2006 07:58 am »

Sea Launch Successfully Delivers the XM-4 Satellite to Orbit
Long Beach, Calif., October 30, 2006 –Sea Launch Company today successfully delivered the XM-4 broadcast satellite to geosynchronous transfer orbit (GTO). Early data indicate the spacecraft is accurately positioned and in excellent condition.

A Zenit-3SL vehicle lifted off at 3:49 pm Pacific Standard Time (23:49 GMT) from the Odyssey Launch Platform, positioned at 154 degrees West Longitude in the equatorial Pacific. All systems performed nominally throughout the flight. The Block DM upper stage inserted the 5,193 kg (11,448 lbs.) spacecraft into geosynchronous transfer orbit, on its way to final orbital position of 115 degrees West Longitude. A ground station at Hartebeesthoek, near Pretoria, South Africa, acquired the first signal from the satellite in orbit.

Built by the Boeing Satellite Development Center, the Boeing 702 spacecraft carries a high-power S-band Digital Audio Radio Service (DARS) payload provided by Alcatel Alenia Space. Like the three XM satellites currently in orbit, XM-4 will support XM Radio’s direct broadcast of digital radio programming to cars, homes and portable radios throughout the continental United States and Canada.

Following the completion of the XM-4 mission, Rob Peckham, president and general manager of Sea Launch, congratulated XM Satellite Radio. "Successfully launching this fourth satellite for XM Radio is extremely satisfying for Sea Launch. The success of the XM-4 mission reconfirms a strong and valuable relationship between two goal-oriented companies. We are proud to be XM Satellite Radio’s launch service provider of choice."

"I also want to take this opportunity to congratulate the Sea Launch team for another outstanding mission. Without the team’s expertise and dedication to excellence, we could not have realized today’s significant accomplishment."

The XM-4 satellite will have 18 kilowatts of total power at the beginning of life on orbit. Specified for a 15-year lifespan, Sea Launch’s direct insertion into equatorial orbit is designed to yield additional years of service life. This is Sea Launch’s fourth successful launch for XM Satellite Radio, completing previous missions in March 2001, May 2001 and February 2005.

###

Contact: Paula Korn, 562.499.4729 or 562.254.5684 (mobile), [email protected]

Satori · « **Reply #166 on:** 10/31/2006 09:51 am »

Any idea if this was the last mission of Sea Launch for 2006 or is another flight scheduled (NSS-8) for this year?

Terry Rocket · « **Reply #167 on:** 10/31/2006 12:25 pm »

They seem to be a bit like Ariane 5 (but single payload). Anyone else in this business of Geostationary on the cheap?

censored account · « **Reply #168 on:** 10/31/2006 05:58 pm »

Quote

Satori - 31/10/2006 2:34 AM

Any idea if this was the last mission of Sea Launch for 2006 or is another flight scheduled (NSS-8) for this year?

XM was the last mission of the year, our next launch will be sometime in early January 07.

Bob

Satori · « **Reply #169 on:** 11/01/2006 04:34 am »

Quote

bobrogg - 31/10/2006 12:41 PM

Quote
Satori - 31/10/2006 2:34 AM

Any idea if this was the last mission of Sea Launch for 2006 or is another flight scheduled (NSS-8) for this year?

XM was the last mission of the year, our next launch will be sometime in early January 07.

Bob

oK! Thank you very much and congratulations for a very successful year!