Disconnecting the launcher adapter ring from the CCU3 pallet
The launcher adapter ring, while remaining integrated to the base of the Planck spacecraft, is disconnected from the pallet of the payload transport container (Conteneur Charge Utile 3, or CCU3) on which it had been secured during transport of the spacecraft to the final assembly building (Bâtiment d'Assemblage Final, or BAF).
Next the Planck spacecraft with the launcher adapter ring was lifted up inside the BAF for mating of the spacecraft on top of the Ariane 5 ECA launcher.
Last Update: 1 September 2019