fter arrival at the cosmodrome, the payload undergoes checkout and fueling. It is then transported to the space vehicle assembly building to be integrated with the launch vehicle, the components of which have already been transported to the cosmodrome by rail. The integration process can follow one of two approaches, depending on payload requirements. In one option, the payload, adapter, interstage, and, for "Molniya", the "Block L" stage, are integrated vertically. The two halves of the payload fairing are then attached to either the interstage ("Soyuz") or to the "Block L" stage ("Molniya") and connected together. This assembly (referred to as the "head block" in Russian terminology) is then rotated to a horizontal position, moved to a transporter/erector railroad car, and integrated horizontally with the rest of the launch vehicle. In the other option, the payload, interstage, "Block L" ("Molniya"), and "Block I" are integrated vertically, after which the assembly is rotated to a horizontal position and the complete payload fairing is rolled into place over the payload. This stack is then transferred to a transporter/erector car and attached to the previously assembled core stage and strap-on boosters. Throughout this process, temperatures within the vehicle assembly building called the MIK are maintained between 5° and 35° C (41-95° F). Once the payload is integrated with the launch vehicle, temperatures within the payload fairing can be maintained between 15° and 25° C (59-77° F).   

process, payload   thermal  control is interrupted for not more than 3.5 h. The launch pad consists of a fixed rectangular platform, in the center of which is a square pit. Once in place on the pad, the vehicle rests inside this pit on a rotating structure, with its aft end approximately 7 m (23 ft) below the level of the launch platform. The rotating structure allows the vehicle to be aligned to the proper flight azimuth before launch. Attached to the rotating structure are four supporting trusses, along with service towers and umbilical masts. The support trusses act to secure the vehicle in position before launch; they are held in place by the weight of the vehicle itself. The entire launch pad structure is suspended over a large flame trench.