Transcutaneous analyte sensor systems and methods

A system for applying an on-skin sensor assembly to a skin of a host, the system comprising:

• a telescoping assembly having a first portion configured to move distally relative to a second portion from a proximal starting position to a distal position along a path;
• a sensor module releasably coupled to the first portion, the sensor module including a sensor, electrical contacts, a seal, and a sensor module housing,
• wherein the sensor module housing includes a channel in which at least a first portion of the sensor is located, wherein the channel is configured to align a bend of the first portion of the sensor, and
• wherein the sensor module comprises a first adhesive configured to couple the sensor module to the base;
• a needle including a slot in which at least a second portion of the sensor is located;
• and
• a base releasably coupled to the second portion, wherein the base comprises a second adhesive configured to couple the base to the skin, wherein moving the first portion to the distal position couples the sensor module to the base by the first adhesive.