Orbital Minotaur I - Manual (Page 69)

Minotaur I User’s Guide Section 7.0 – Ground and Launch Operations
7.1. Launch Vehicle Integration Overview
Orbital utilizes the same fundamental integration and process flow for all launch vehicles in the Minotaur
family. A flow chart of the launch vehicle integration at the MPF is shown in Figure 7.1-1 for a VAFB
Minotaur I launch. This minimizes the handling complexity for both vehicle and payload. Horizontal
integration of the Minotaur I vehicle upper stages simplifies integration procedures, increases safety and
provides excellent access for the integration team. In addition, simple mechanical and electrical interfaces
reduce vehicle/payload integration times, increase system reliability and minimize vehicle demands on
payload availability.
Figure 7.1-1. Launch Vehicle Processing Flow
7.1.1. Planning and Documentation
Minotaur integration and test activities are controlled by a comprehensive set of Work Packages (WPs)
that describe and document every aspect of integrating and testing the Minotaur launch vehicle and its
payload. All testing and integration activities are scheduled by work package number on an activity
schedule that is updated and distributed daily during field operations. This schedule is maintained by
Orbital and serves as the master document communicating all activities planned at the field site. The
schedule contains notations regarding the status of the work package document and hardware required
to begin the operation. Mission-specific work packages are created for mission-unique or payload-specific
procedures. Any discrepancies encountered are recorded on a Non-Conformance Report and
dispositioned as required. All activities are in accordance with Orbital’s ISO 9001 certification.
7.1.2. Upper Stack Assembly Integration and Test Activities
The upper stack assembly will undergo system level testing at Orbital’s Chandler facility prior to being
shipped to the field. The major vehicle components and subassemblies that comprise the Minotaur I
Upper Stack Assembly, including the Stage 3 and Stage 4 Orion motors, are delivered to Orbital’s MPF
located at VAFB, CA. There, the vehicle is horizontally integrated prior to the arrival of the payload.
Integration is performed at a convenient working height, which allows easy access for component
installation, inspection and test. The integration and test process ensures that all vehicle components and
subsystems are thoroughly tested.
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