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Globalstar’s six-satellite “cluster” is integrated for the upcoming Soyuz launch from Baikonur Cosmodrome
The encapsulation process at Baikonur Cosmodrome is shown in these photos. At left, the payload “stack” – consisting of the Fregat upper stage and six Globalstar second-generation satellites grouped around their cone-shaped dispenser – is rotated to the horizontal position. A view from inside the ST payload fairing (image at center) shows the payload “stack” ready for its encapsulation. At right, the encapsulation process is nearly complete as the fairing and payload stack are integrated.
July 1, 2011
Globalstar’s six satellites for the upcoming Starsem/Arianespace Soyuz mission from Baikonur Cosmodrome have been encapsulated in their protective payload fairing, advancing preparations for the July 11 liftoff into the final phase.
This encapsulation occurred today in the Baikonur Cosmodrome Upper Composite Integration Facility (UCIF) operated by Starsem, placing the dispenser with its integrated Globalstar satellites inside the ST-type payload fairing – which has a diameter of 4.1 meters and an overall length of 11.4 meters.
With this step, the mission’s payload component – which incorporates the fairing, its six trapezoidal-shaped Globalstar satellites and the mission’s Fregat upper stage – is ready for mating with the assembled Soyuz launch vehicle.
Arianespace’s July 11 mission will be the no. 2 Soyuz flight with a six-spacecraft cluster of Globalstar’s second-generation satellites, following an on-target launch performed from Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan last October. Two follow-on missions are planned later this year, deploying a constellation to support Globalstar’s mobile satellite services for commercial and government customers in more than 120 countries.
These Soyuz flights are being performed by Starsem for Arianespace, utilizing the improved Soyuz 2 launcher that also will be operated by Arianespace from the Spaceport in French Guiana.
The Globalstar second-generation satellites were built by Thales Alenia Space and weigh approximately 700 kg. each at liftoff. They will handle Globalstar’s voice, Duplex and Simplex data products and services – including its lineup of SPOT retail consumer products. These new spacecraft are designed to last for 15 years, which is twice the design life of Globalstar’s first-generation satellites.