|
Noel Florendo, Payload Unit Launch Manager, reviews procedures in the hangar of the Launch Platform. The Zenit-3SL vehicle is in the background, cradled in the transporter-erector. |
|
The transporter section of this structure (lower level), carries the rocket out to the launch pad, at the stern of the platform. The erector (upper level) raises the rocket to a vertical position on the pad, with the support of pneumatic pumps. A row of red stars on the erector celebrates each mission (17 missions... and counting). |
|
With the hangar roof slid open to provide space for the rocket's movement, the erector brings the rocket up. |
|
The rocket is now positioned on the launch pad for a final series of tests on the vehicle and its spacecraft, before the voyage to the launch site begins.
|
