Orbital Minotaur VI - Manual (Page 93)

Minotaur IV • V • VI User’s Guide Section 7.0 – Ground and Launch Operations
7.2.1. Payload Propellant Loading
Payloads utilizing integral propulsion systems with propellants such as hydrazine can be loaded and
secured through coordinated OSP arrangements. This is a non-standard service.
7.3. Launch Operations
At the completion of activities at the MPF and PPF, the final phase of the Launch campaign is entered.
This begins with the stacking of the booster stages and culminates with the launch of the Minotaur and
payload. A notional launch operations flow chart is shown in Figure 7.3-1. The L-minus dates may vary
from mission to mission depending on vehicle configuration and other range commitments. Launch
operations activities are described in more detail in the subsections to follow.
Figure 7.3-1. Minotaur IV Launch Site Operations
7.3.1. Booster Assembly Stacking/Launch Site Preparation
After completion of the launch vehicle testing at the MPF, the booster stages and the GCA/motor
assembly are transported to the launch facility.
Prior to the arrival of the PK boosters, the site is prepared for launch operations with the installation of the
launch stand adapter.
Each PK motor is individually transported down to the launch site. Once a motor arrives at the launch
site, it is rolled off the transporter and then rotated into a vertical configuration. It is then lifted and
emplaced onto the launch stand adapter. This process is repeated for each PK stage.
The GCA/motor assembly is shipped in the vertical configuration to the launch site, where it is emplaced
on top of the PK motor stack. Stacking operations are shown in Figure 7.3.1-1 as performed at VAFB
SLC-8 for a Minotaur IV mission.
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