2024.5.28 (ESOC Field Report)

Two shifts were in operation in the ESOC satellite operations control room starting 7.5 hours before the launch.
We were able to approach the launch with peace of mind because we were able to monitor the status of the satellite installed inside the rocket fairing at the Vandenberg Launch Center in the United States via a ground network. What was striking was that the temperature at Vandenberg Launch Site gradually rose from early morning toward the launch time of 2:20 p.m., which was clearly visible in the satellite telemetry.

Even before the launch, the monitors in the ESOC control room were showing images of the launch site and a public relations event being held in another building at ESOC. was displayed on screen and we watched the footage from the launch to the separation of the satellite.

After that, the baton is handed over to ESOC, which will capture the satellite signal from the ground station antenna. When the link-up was achieved, everyone let out a small cheer of "Oh!" and their eyes were glued to the monitor receiving the telemetry signals from the satellite! (High-fives, hugs, and handshakes were put off until later.) When the deployment of the solar panels was confirmed via telemetry, everyone breathed a sigh of relief... The operations room was filled with concentration and tension as everyone tried to fulfill their roles.

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