Cluster launch preparations

Encapsulation of Cluster spacecraft F3 and F4 on top of Ar-501 in the Batiment d'Assemblage Final (BAF) building at the Kourou, French Guiana launch site. The Speltra cocoon being lowered on to F3/F4 already carries F1/F2 on its forward face.

Following the Ariane 501 launch failure on 4 June 1996, four replacement Cluster satellites are planned for launch in 2000 to study the interaction of the solar wind with Earth's magnetosphere. [Image Date: 1996/05] [97.12.007-003]