Soyuz 2.1a/Fregat-M | Neitron (Kosmos 2553)
Launch Successful
L - -- : -- : -- : --
Instantaneous launch window.
Launch Window
Feb. 5, 2022, 7 a.m. - Feb. 5, 2022, 7 a.m.
Instantaneous launch window.
Feb. 5, 2022, 7 a.m. - Feb. 5, 2022, 7 a.m.
Payload suspected to be a new type of Russian military intelligence satellite called Neitron.
Successful launch
Launch in flight per article
Liftoff confirmed.
Delayed to Feb 5 with the same T-0.
Set GO per marine space closure notices.
The 2.1a version includes conversion from analog to digital flight control system and uprated engines on the booster and the first stage with improved injection systems. The new digital flight control and telemetry systems allow the rocket to launch from a fixed rather than angled launch platform and adjust its heading in flight. A digital control system also enables the launch of larger commercial satellites with wider and longer payload fairings such as the ST-type fairing. These fairings introduce too much aerodynamic instability for the old analog system to handle.
Progress Rocket Space Centre, formerly known as TsSKB-Progress, is a space science and aerospace research company which is known for manufacturing launch vehicles and satellites. Most notably, Progress Rocket Space Centre is the manufacturer of Soyuz launch vehicles.
INFO WIKI
A Russian military satellite launched Saturday from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome aboard a Soyuz rocket, heading for an unusual orbital altitude of more than 1,200 miles to begin a top secret mission.
A Soyuz rocket lifted off from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome in Russia earlier this morning to deliver an unidentified Russian military satellite to orbit. The launch occurred on February 5 at 07:00 UTC, or 10:00 AM Moscow time.
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