MAXIMA Launch Operations

Launch operations generally begin after the decision to fly and with the arrival to the building of the launch vehicle which is Tiny Tim at the balloon base in Palestine. In operation of transfer from the crane to the launch vehicle is generally tested and practiced previous to the flight day so that it goes smoothly on the flight day.

The MAXIMA gondola in the building and Tiny Tim outside for the MAX5 flight (photo) are shown in the picture.

The MAXIMA gondola hanging from Tiny Tim outside for the MAX5 flight (photo)

The launch crew posed in front of the balloon as it is first inflated for the MAX5 flight (photo) the people shown are (top row left to right) Adrian Lee, Shaul Hanany, Paul Richards, and Paulo DeBernardis. Kneeling are (bottom row left to right) Thor Wilbanks, Andreas, Massimo, and Andrea. Missing are Dave Horsely, Jason Feldman, George Smoot, Johhny

The MAXIMA gondola hanging from Tiny Tim outside for the MAX5 flight preparing for launch (photo)

The MAXIMA gondola being launched from Tiny Tim September 3, 1995 for the MAX5 flight (photo)

The MAXIMA gondola ascending for the MAX5 flight (photo)

More launch preparations and flight potographs from the MAXIMA0 page.

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