Almost a month has passed and we have reached a major milestone. After receiving permisson to go ahead, the satellite is fuelled. We all thank them for loading our baby properly for its life in space.

Standing by for fuelling. (ESA)

Fuelling a satellite is a particularly delicate operation. Hydrazine is extremely toxic so only a few specialists wearing ‘scape’ suits remain in the cleanroom for the duration.

Wearing scape suits. (ESA)

The rest of the team stayed back at the hotel.

Job done. (ESA)

The Ascent Unit is back in the MIK and will start preparations for our arrival.

Launch adapter waiting. (ESA)

The adapter is sitting waiting patiently to join us.

From the ESA Sentinel-5P launch campaign team in Plesetsk

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