Starsem
provides complete Soyuz launch services, beginning with launch
vehicle production through the in-orbit delivery of the payload.
The following
outlines the key events in a typical launch service contract
(L = Liftoff):
Contract signature
(L-24 months): Interface Control Document (ICD) Revision
0 issued; preparation of program schedule and management and
quality plan begins; Launch vehicle configuration specified;
Adapter development activities begin; acquisition begins for
long lead time components of launch vehicle
L-23 months:
Mission analysis activities begin in coordination with the customer
L-18 months:
Production of launch vehicle begins; documentation and plans
for launch campaign initiated
L-16 months:
Review of preliminary phase of mission analysis activities;
update of relevant spacecraft models, mission parameters, launch
vehicle environments
L-12 months: Final phase of mission analysis begins;
Spacecraft mass properties and mission parameters fixed; Adapter
Critical Design Review; Preliminary readiness review of Baikonur
Cosmodrome
L-7 months:
Adapter Final Qualification Review
L-6 months:
Review of final phase of mission analysis; Approval of final
flight software
L-5 months:
Edition of final version of ICD; Adapter fit checks and
release tests performed;
L-2 months:
Production of all components completed; Final reviews of
Cosmodrome readiness and hardware readiness (launch vehicle,
adapter, spacecraft) performed; Shipment of all components to
Baikonur Cosmodrome authorized
L-5
weeks: Spacecraft arrives at the Cosmodrome; Launch
campaign activities begin
L-0: Liftoff!
On the way to a successful mission.
