Arm & go!

After a rather stressful 3 days, we have successfully implemented and tested the two additional safety measures for YES2: a late request for design change from the Russian partners: a slip-knot and autonomous cut function, both to activate in case of early accidental tether jam and release tether and Fotino from Foton such that the tether cannot wrap around Foton. The team and YES2 showed great flexibility to implement such a change at this time without opening (much of) the satellite. In parallel we made sure that the OBC receives data from the UHF (a left-over open issue) and that the important length sensors of YES2 are fully functional. After successful functional test, the YES2 hardware can be said to be 100% in good shape now.

Upcoming deadlines are:

5 September Upload of Init File and plugging of MASS-Fotino release timer plug (the Init File contains the final mission parameters, determination of which is our current focus: deployment profile, control gains based on last measurements and orbit prediction etc.).

10 September: arming of YES2 and closing of Fotino heatshield. Then... launch on 14th!