Roscosmos specialists have completed one of the key stages of pre-launch preparation for the Progress MS-33 cargo spacecraft — a control illumination test of its solar batteries. This procedure confirmed the full operability of the photovoltaic panels before the vehicle is sent to the International Space Station.
The control illumination test is considered the final inspection of the panels with photovoltaic cells before launch. At a special stand equipped with about a hundred powerful lamps, the spacecraft's solar batteries are exposed to an intense light flux for several minutes. During this short time, engineers obtain comprehensive data on the conversion efficiency of light energy into electrical energy and verify the absence of defects in the crystalline structure of the photovoltaic cells.
At present, Progress MS-33 is being actively prepared for launch. After successfully passing the solar battery test, specialists proceed to the final operations for fueling, integration, and comprehensive checks of all the spacecraft's systems.
The cargo spacecraft is expected to transport about 2,500 kilograms of cargo to the station, including fuel for refueling, water, and food for the crew.
Read more materials on the topic:
- Progress MS-33 undergoes testing in an anechoic chamber at Baikonur
- The new Progress MS-33 space cargo spacecraft arrived at Baikonur
- Progress MS-33 sent to Baikonur: preparation for the ISS launch
