Sea Launch User's Guide

Processing and
fueling cells
The processing and fueling cells have been designed to facilitate on-site
electrical testing, spacecraft fueling, and final assembly before encapsulation
of the spacecraft into the payload fairing. Spacecraft providers will
be assigned one of the two high-bay processing and fueling cells (fig.
9-4). Both cells have large-capacity overhead cranes, are certified cleanrooms,
and have fueling islands that offer fuel spill and contamination
control.
Fuel storage room
and oxidizer storage
room
There is a fuel storage room and an oxidizer storage room dedicated to
each of the spacecraft processing and fueling cells. Both sets of rooms
fully support fuel or oxidizer storage and all fueling operations. Complete
personnel protection is provided during hazardous operation and these
rooms offer containment systems in the event of accidental leakage.
Control rooms
Independent control rooms, from which spacecraft operations are conducted,
are located adjacent to each of the processing and fueling cells.
Penetrations between the control room and the processing and fueling
cells allow direct communication between the spacecraft and its controlling
support equipment. A window is installed that allows viewing operations
in each processing and fueling cell.
Garment change
rooms
The garment change rooms are located adjacent to the processing and
fueling cells. These rooms provide the supplies and environment appropriate
for personnel to don cleanroom garments or other protective suits
before entering a processing and fueling cell.
Air lock
The common air lock provides an environmentally controlled cleanroom
that allows access to either the encapsulation cell or one of the two
spacecraft processing and fueling cells. Customer equipment is delivered
to this cell and distributed throughout the rest of the facility. An overhead
crane, forklifts, and other support equipment are available to assist the
customer.
REV B D688-10009-1 9-7