Spacecraft Assembly

The Propulsion System

March 13, 2008

Today we integrated the +Y panel on the Orbiter. This panel supports the instrument module. Last week, we confirmed compatibility with the Universal Space Network, ensuring that our ground stations will be able to communicate with the Orbiter. This week, we completed electrical integration of the propulsion module and the reaction wheels. We performed the end-to-end test of the propulsion system, blowing gas from our tanks out through the latch valves and the thrusters, using the spacecraft electronics to control everything. The LEND instrument is on its way to Goddard Space Flight Center.

The module has all the harnessing and heaters in place, ready for the installation of the instruments. Tomorrow, we will integrate the trackers.

The mechanical team attaches the instrument module panel to the Orbiter. You can see the lifting sling at the top of the photo, with the crane above the field of view.

The mechanical team poses in front of the Orbiter after installation of the +Y panel. The propulsion module is still visible through the space where the +Z panel will go.

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