[SatNews] In the first of three stops before launch this vehicle has undergone a thorough test, all in preparation for...

the Zenit-2S launch vehicle to be utilized in support of the Intelsat 27 mission. Sea Launch AG, through Energia Logistics Ltd., has conducted a Hardware Acceptance Review of the launch vehicle, as well as a team of specialists from the Chief System Engineer’s Office at Energia Logistics Ltd., together with specialists from RSC Energia, reviewed all of the acceptance data for the Zenit-2S #SL 36 vehicle. They determined that all required acceptance test values were within specification.

The Condock-IV sea-based transport vessel carrying the Zenit-2S launch vehicle designated for Intelsat 27 departed the port at Oktyabrsky, Ukraine on October 28, 2012 and is scheduled to arrive pier-side at Sea Launch’s Home Port facility in Long Beach, California on December 7, 2012.

The Block DM-SL upper stage designated for Intelsat 27, provided by RSC Energia, was shipped to Home Port earlier this year and the Payload Accommodations, provided by Boeing Commercial Space Company, will arrive on December 5th. The Intelsat 27 satellite is planned for launch in late January 2013.

Built by Boeing Satellite Systems Inc., Intelsat 27 will weigh approximately 6,203 kilograms (13,675 lbs.) at launch. It is expected to arrive at the Sea Launch facility in early December in preparation for the start of standalone and combined spacecraft operations.

Boeing's Intelsat

Sea Launch AG, headquartered in Bern, Switzerland, provides launch solutions to the industry’s satellite operator community based on the Zenit launch system. These services include the provision of all–inclusive launch services incorporating schedule assurance, financing, risk management; insurance and creative contracting solutions to meet the changing demands of the commercial launch market.