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TOPEX/Poseidon: Perspectives on an Ocean Planet

- Launch Vehicle System

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vehicle

The Launch Vehicle System is responsible for the Ariane 42P launch vehicle, the launch facility, physical integration of the spacecraft and rocket, and execution of the launch phase of the mission ending with the separation of TOPEX/Poseidon from the launch vehicle.

The Ariane 42P, built by Arianespace, was launched from the Ariane Launch Complex at the Guiana Space Center in Kourou, French Guiana. This complex, operated by Arianespace, is located within the Guiana Space Center, which, in its turn, is operated by CNES.

The entire system was managed by the CNES Launch Vehicle System Manager and supported by the Arianespace and JPL/Fairchild spacecraft launch teams.