26 Nov 2014 15:25

Gyro needs to be replaced on Briz-M upper stage to launch European satellite Astra-2G - source

BAIKONUR. Nov 26 (Interfax) - The unstable operation of a Briz-M upper stage's control system discovered during preparations for the launch of the European satellite Astra-2G scheduled for November 28 was due to a gyroscope malfunction, a source with the Baikonur space center told Interfax.

"Specialists have concluded preliminarily that the upper stage's gyroscope has to be replaced. To this end, it is necessary to dismantle the rocket's nose cone to provide access to the upper stage's onboard equipment," he said.

Reserve key equipment components, including gyroscopes, are usually prepared and stand ready for each launch, he said.