 |
| The upper stage is
hoisted in the launcher integration building. Evident in the image
are four large aluminum tanks that contain the MMH fuel and N204
oxidizer (covered with gold-colored thermal protection), along with
the nozzle extending from stage's Aestus engine. Also visible are
two black bottles with helium that pressurizes the stage's fuel/
oxidizer tanks. (CNES/Arianespace
photo) |
Kourou, French Guiana, Nov. 3/Satnews Daily/
¾ The propulsive elements for
Arianespace Flight 165's Ariane 5 G vehicle have been assembled in the
Spaceport's launcher integration building, marking another step forward
in preparations for this upcoming mission.
Arianespace said completion of the basic launcher was achieved with the
installation of Ariane 5's vehicle equipment bay, followed by the EPS
upper stage.
The vehicle equipment bay is considered the launcher's "brains," and is
fitted with the power distribution system, flight control unit,
telemetry system and other components that provide flight guidance,
orientation and sequencing during the mission.
The EPS upper stage has the longest burn time of any propulsive stage on
Ariane 5, and will carry the mission's French Helios II military
reconnaissance satellite into orbit after separation from the launch
vehicle.
In addition to Flight 165's Helios II primary payload, the
mission also will carry five small secondary payloads.
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