For images of the preparations for this mission, please refer to the TsENKI pages as noted (linked with permission - all photos by TsENKI):

• February 2008 - Testing of the Zenit launch complex at Baikonur Site 45 - www.tsenki.com/NewsDoSeleFed.asp?NEWSID=2955

A Zenit-3SLB integrated launch vehicle is rolled out to the launch pad. Russian and Ukrainian launch crews practice operations. All steps of pre-launch processing are featured in this exercise, including LOX loading of the Block DM-SLB upper stage. Following these procedures, components are drained and the rocket is removed from the pad. With testing completed, launch personnel begin actual pre-launch processing for the inaugural Baikonur launch of the Zenit-3SLB.

• April 2008 - Zenit-3SLB launch preparations continue on schedule - www.tsenki.com/NewsDoSeleFed.asp?NEWSID=3220

Russian and Ukrainian launch personnel perform mating of Zenit-3SLB: the orbital unit is attached to the two-stage vehicle at Site 42. The orbital unit consists of Block DM-SLB upper stage and AMOS-3 satellite, which is encapsulated in the payload fairing. Electrical test and check-out follows mechanical mating.

Inquiries about the Amos-3 mission
Press inquiries may be directed to Amos-Spacecom (see: www.amos-spacecom.com).