Vega-C launch pad and propulsion subsytem tests

Last Friday we visited the ZLV (Zone de Lancement Vega), which is the Vega-C launch pad.

The mobile gantry where the launcher is going to be assembled is surrounded by 4 lightning protection towers. On the left, the platform is equipped with rails on which the mobile gantry is retracted a few hours before lift-off:

A closer view with also the Ariane 6 launch pad (EL4) visible in the background on the right:

On the following picture, one can see the water tower used for the water deluge of the launch pad to decrease the vibration levels during lift-off:

This week the satellite propulsion subsystem has been tested. As the tank is pressurized during these activities, blast shields have been installed around the satellite for safety reasons:

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