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AdV-PAY (NE and WE Payloads)

L. Naticchioni, E. Majorana, M. Orsini, N. Menzione, M. Ciardelli, L. Francescon & Thor - 16:34 Friday 11 April 2025 (66561)

WE payload integrated

This morning we did the final checks on the WE payload: mirror magnets ok and safety stops locked for transport.
The WE palyoad was then moved from 1500W to 3000W, where the integration procedure started at 12:30. Payload suspended and Hymo frame removed at 13:30. Actuation cage and marionette cables connected.
Next step: fine balancing operations (this afternoon).

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Comments to this report:

gherardini - 17:11 Friday 11 April 2025 (66564)

This afternoon I did a final electrical check from the tower flanges, everything is fine.

E. Majorana, L. Naticchioni, M. Orsini - 20:22 Friday 11 April 2025 (66565)

Payload balancing operations started in the afternoon. Re-adjustment of the counterweights position without adding new ones. Two marionette "arrow" blocks removed for balancing (same configuration as before the extraction).
Balancing operations are expected to be completed tomorrow morning.
SA is under position control only.

majorana - 12:04 Saturday 12 April 2025 (66568)

In the last 25 years I asked repeatedly to equip the terminal buildings and the central building with reliable wireless phone lines. Apparently we are able to detect BHs in the far universe but this technical task is really unaffordable by Virgo.

The Battery at WE lasts just for a call of 10 mins at present. There are two phones but one of the two is not working. The system should be plug and play and for dummies like me, because safety and operation during payload assembly are both relevant and crucial. In past I relied on my personal WA or Skype connections. This is unacceptable and much more relevant the other scientific issues usually referred as the important ones.