ESA Science & Technology - MPO being lowered into the Large Space Simulator

The Structural and Thermal Model of the Mercury Planetary Orbiter being lowered into the Large Space Simulator (LSS) by an overhead crane, using the special handling/lifting adapter. The lifting device on top has an electrically driven system to adjust the crane hook interface location, which allows the attitude of the spacecraft to be finely levelled during the lifting and mating operation.

The mechanical interface where the Thermal Test Adapter will mate with the LSS (horizontal table on the gimball stand) is visible beneath the temporary access platforms.