The improved Soyuz 2-1a launcher's new payload fairing is ready for flight

June 28, 2006

The enlarged payload fairing for Starsem's upgraded Soyuz 2-1a launch vehicle is ready for integration with its MetOp-A satellite passenger, which will be launched July 17 from Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.

This new fairing enables a full range of satellite payloads to be accommodated, increasing the workhorse Soyuz launch vehicle's capabilities on commercial missions.

The photos below provide a close-up look at the new fairing, as well as the MetOp-A meteorological payload (click on the images for a larger version:)


 

The Soyuz 2-1a fairing is shown in Starsem's state-of-the-art processing facility at Baikonur Cosmodrome. The fairing has a length of 11.4 meters and an external diameter of 4.1 meters. It will fly for the first time on the July 17 launch of MetOp-A protecting the satellite during the first 4 min. 49 sec. of the mission.


This rear view underscores the internal volume available with the new Soyuz payload fairing. Other upgrades for the improved Soyuz 2-1a launcher include a digital flight control system, which enables the launcher to be flown with the lager fairing and provides additional mission flexibility for the vehicle.

 


 

MetOp-A has a height of 6.3 meters and a width of 2.5 meters, easily allowing the satellite to be accommodated in the new Soyuz payload fairing. With a liftoff mass of 4,085 kg., MetOp-A will improve Europe's meteorological observation capabilities and increase its capacity for weather forecasting and climate monitoring.


  • See the other mission updates:


    • >  Launch postponement for the MetOp-A satellite (July 20, 2006)
    >  MetOp-A: launch postponed (July 19, 2006)
    >  MetOp-A satellite launch (July 19, 2006)
    >  Postponement of the MetOp-A launch (July 18, 2006)
    >  MetOp-A: launch postponed (July 17, 2006)
    >  Soyuz 2-1a moves to the launch pad with MetOp-A (July 14, 2006)
    >  MetOp-A is mated to its Soyuz 2-1a launcher (July 12, 2006)
    >  MetOp-A is integrated in its protective payload fairing (July 11, 2006)
    >  MetOp-A is readied for its July flight on the upgraded Soyuz 2-1a launcher (June 16, 2006)
    >  MetOp-A launch campaign begins at Baikonur Cosmodrome (April 22, 2006)

  • For additional information on the MetOp-A mission, read the Launch Kit.
  • Watch the MetOp-A launch live.
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