Sentinel 1CD Blog

This blog is dedicated to the Sentinel 1CD launch campaign at CSG Kourou. Here, we’ll be sharing the highlights of this incredible journey with our colleagues, families, and friends, bringing you along for every key moment of the campaign!

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Sentinel-1D Encapsulation into Ariane 6 Fairing

Friday, 24th of October

On Friday 24th of October, the Sentinel-1D spacecraft got integrated into the Ariane 6 fairing at the Encapsulation Facility Ariane (EFA).

This was the last time we saw the spacecraft on ground!

The Sentinel-1D spacecraft integrated into the Ariane 6 fairing inside the Encapsulation Facility Ariane, showing a clear view of the spacecraft and surrounding structures.
Sentinel-1D sitting on Launch Vehicle Adapter before encapsulation into Ariane 6 fairing

Following a final inspection of the Launch Vehicle Adapter, one half of the fairing approached first to the spacecraft and was well positioned with the help of specific mechanical ground support equipment.

Technicians working on the Ariane 6 fairing in a cleanroom environment, with large machinery and equipment in the background.
Technicians maneuver the Sentinel-1D spacecraft as it is integrated into the Ariane 6 fairing in the Encapsulation Facility Ariane.
The Sentinel-1D spacecraft being integrated into the Ariane 6 fairing at the Encapsulation Facility, showcasing the spacecraft's preparation for launch.
Ariane 6 fairing with the Sentinel-1D spacecraft integrated inside, lifted by a crane in the Encapsulation Facility.
Two technicians observe the Sentinel-1D spacecraft integrated into the Ariane 6 fairing at the Encapsulation Facility Ariane, with blue panels in the background.
The Sentinel-1D spacecraft integrated into the Ariane 6 fairing, showcasing its upper structure and satellite components inside a clean room.

After rotating the fairing along the circumference to give space to the next operation, the launcher operators approached the second half of the fairing.

View of the opened Ariane 6 fairing with the integrated Sentinel-1D spacecraft being prepared for launch, surrounded by technicians in protective gear.
Technicians working on the integration of the Sentinel-1D spacecraft into the Ariane 6 fairing at the Encapsulation Facility, with the spacecraft visible in the background.
View of Sentinel-1D spacecraft integrated into the Ariane 6 fairing inside the Encapsulation Facility, showing details of the spacecraft and fairing structure.
Ariane 6 fairing with the Sentinel-1D spacecraft being integrated inside by technicians wearing white uniforms and helmets.

With fabulous precision, the two halves came closer until finally completing the fairing integration.

View of the integrated Sentinel-1D spacecraft inside the Ariane 6 fairing at the Encapsulation Facility, showcasing the engineering and design features.

Interestingly, assembling the fairing around the spacecraft was completed quickly. However, sealing it took more time; 420 screws were used around its diameter, while over 600 screws were required along its length to secure the fairing fully.

Close-up view of the Sentinel-1D spacecraft integrated into the Ariane 6 fairing at the Encapsulation Facility, showcasing blue structural supports and the spacecraft's exterior.
Workers in protective gear using a ladder to integrate components of the Sentinel-1D spacecraft at the Encapsulation Facility Ariane, with blue and white machinery in the background.

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