The payload for the Soyuz-2-1v launch is a small reconnaissance satellite developed by VNIIEM and known by the acronym EMKA ("Experimental Small Space Apparatus"). Launch was originally scheduled for October and then slipped to November, December and eventually January due to technical problems with the payload.
Sun-Synchronous OrbitSoyuz MS-08 begins expedition 55 by carrying Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Artemyev, NASA astronauts Andrew Feustel and Richard Arnold to the International Space Station. After launching from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, they will rendezvous to the station where they will remain for their 6 month stay.
Low Earth OrbitHispasat 30W-6, also known as Hispasat 1F, is a Spanish geostationary communications satellite. Joining the Hispasat fleet, this satellite is to operate in orbit for 15 years, providing services to Europe, North Africa, North America and South America. It is a replacement for the Hispasat 1D satellite at 30º West longtitude in geostationary orbit. Satellite launch mass is about 6000 kg and it is equipped with Ku-, Ka- and C-band transponders.
Geostationary Transfer Orbit B1044 - Maiden Flight Atlantic OceanThe Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite-S Series (GOES-S) is the second of the next generation of geostationary weather satellites. The four satellites of the series will provide advanced imaging with increased spatial resolution and faster coverage for more accurate forecasts, real-time mapping of lightning activity, and improved monitoring of solar activity. GOES-S will provide continuous imagery and atmospheric measurements of the Western Hemisphere. GOES-S will be the primary tool for the detection and tracking of hurricanes and severe weather. Once operational as GOES-17, the satellite wil replace GOES-15 satellite.
Geostationary Transfer Orbit #GOESSPAZ is a military Earth radar observation satellite, designed and built by Airbus Defence and Space for Spain. The satellite is owned and operated by Hisdesat. The PAZ satellite is equipped with an advanced radar instrument designed for high flexibility, and the capability to operate in numerous modes allowing for the choice of several different image configurations. It will be able to generate images with up to 25 cm resolution. Designed for a mission of five and a half years, PAZ will orbit Earth 15 times per day, covering an area of over 300,000 square kilometres. On its slightly inclined quasi-polar orbit, PAZ will cover the entire globe in 24 hours, serving both government and commercial needs. Satellite is sharing the ride with two small SpaceX satellites. These will test the technologies for the planned satellite network called Starlink, which will consist of roughly 4000 satellites providing space-based Internet around the globe.
Sun-Synchronous Orbit B1038 - Flight Proven ( ) Pacific Ocean