The service module structure is made of aluminium and interfaces with the Ariane V adapter on one side and with the payload module on the other side. All units accommodated into the module are thermally coupled to the six lateral panels of the module, which are used as radiators and covered with optical solar reflectors.
The function of the solar array and sun-shield assembly is to protect the payload from heating and sunlight, while exploiting the solar radiant energy for the satellite power supply. It consists of six deployable solar panels which during launch are stowed against the lateral panels. The solar panels are connected by thermal foils that are spread between them, so as to provide a nearly-circular 9.5 m diameter sun-shield, whose rear face is covered by thermally insulating sheets.