After the rocket is loaded into the launch tower, a vertical integration test is performed. Like the horizontal integration test, the vertical integration test is a full scale simulated launch sequence. Again this is to test the readiness of the payload for launch. At this point only small adjustments can be made to the payload without dissassembling the rocket which is difficult at best once it has been loaded into the tower. It is now the day before the launch and final preparations are being made. All GSE equipment has been moved and reassembled in the launch block house. The next stage is Launch.

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