Latest update on the launch of Copernicus Sentinel-6 Michael Freilich
NASA has released the following information about the launch of Copernicus Sentinel-6 Michael Freilich, which was planned for launch on 10 November, 2020.
06 November 2020
04 November 2020
“NASA and SpaceX now are targeting Saturday, 21 November for the launch of the US-European Sentinel-6 Michael Freilich ocean-monitoring satellite on a Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 4E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California.
“The additional time allowed SpaceX to complete Falcon 9 Merlin engine testing and inspections following an on-pad abort during a non-NASA mission.
“After completing engine testing and inspections, teams from NASA and SpaceX have determined that two engines on the Sentinel-6 rocket's first stage would need to be replaced to ensure optimal performance during launch. Work is now progressing to implement the engine change and all engine hardware replacements will finish next week.
“NASA's Launch Services Program, SpaceX, NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and the European Space Agency continue the diligent work of preparing both the spacecraft and rocket as the launch campaign moves forward.”
EUMETSAT will control the Copernicus Sentinel-6 Michael Freilich satellite from its Darmstadt headquarters and process and disseminate its altimetry data.
