The week of standalone operations has quickly drawn to a close. The propellant (prop) team has methodically and flawlessly completed the critical operation of fueling the spacecraft (SC). The three day operation, as has been the case on this campaign since our arrival, was completed ahead of schedule. Touch (knock) wood, as our Russian friends like to say. This milestone also signifies the preparations for joint operations. All SC electrical testing was completed, and final pre-launch closeouts and inspections are underway. The spacecraft was then lifted onto the transporter for the short journey from Hall 103A to Hall 101.  And in following a launch campaigns superstitious tradition, the prop load was followed by a gathering of all the propellant specialists from both teams for a post load celebration BBQ.

Meanwhile, on the Khrunichev side of things, the Breeze M has returned to Building 92A-50 after a couple of days at area 31 for high pressure fuel loading. It will be installed on the tilt over fixture in preparation for the installation of the SC. The payload adapter sits waiting, as does the separation system.  Our friends from RUAG will arrive this week to prepare for installation of the separation system, which also sits waiting.  The payload fairing is ready for installation as well. The launch vehicle sits in Hall 111 undergoing its final preparations as well.  

So its L – 15, and things continue to run like clockwork. Touch wood.