Soyuz-2.1b launcher launched the Fregat upper stage into Earth orbit with a military device. The exact purpose of the launched device is kept secret. But, according to a number of Russian and foreign sources, it is a satellite of the Kupol space system, also known as the Tundra. It will be part of the Unified Space System Dome. AiF.ru figured out what, how and why the army was sent into space.
What is the CEN “ Dome '' ?
The CEN was established by the Russian Defense Ministry since the mid-2000s as a replacement for the Oko-1 ballistic missile launch detection system satellite, which ceased to function in 2014. & nbsp;
The system includes Tundra satellites: the first two & mdash; Cosmos-2510 & mdash; were launched in 2015, Cosmos-2518 & mdash; in 2017 and Cosmos-2541 in 2019. By 2022, the Dome is expected to consist of nine satellites.
EKS consists of four types of satellites: optical-electronic, radio and radar reconnaissance system, marine reconnaissance and target designation system, missile attack warning devices and communication satellites. These satellites will be able to detect enemy ships anywhere in the oceans and point them with Caliber and Dagger missiles. and “ Zircon. & # 39; & # 39;
According to representatives of the RF Armed Forces, the creation of the EKS will significantly reduce the detection time of ballistic missile launches, as well as significantly increase the reliability and efficiency of the delivery of information on them. missile threats against the country's rulers, state control centers and the armed forces. & nbsp;
What is the tundra?
'Tundra' devices (Kosmos-2552) are expected to replace the satellites of the OKO-1 system, which was only able to detect the torch of a launch ballistic missile. The determination of the trajectory fell to the ground services, which considerably increased the time required to collect the information. Tundra system itself determines the parameters of the ballistic trajectory of the missile and the probable zone of destruction. Also, 'Tundra' record launches and trajectories not only of ballistic missiles, but also, for example, of missiles launched from submarines. These are the so-called fifth generation vehicles. & Nbsp;
The satellite also has a combat control system, that is, through it you can give a signal to retaliate. Experts estimate that after the launch of this satellite, the Russian military group in space will have almost one hundred percent coverage of Earth's territory. & Nbsp;
What is the Soyuz 2.1b launcher?
Soyuz launcher & mdash; this is a mid-weight, multi-functional launcher that was introduced in 1966 and has been a workaholic ever since. Soviet/Russian space program. It is capable of launching civilian and military satellites, as well as performing cargo and manned missions to the ISS. & Nbsp;
Several variations of the Soyuz launcher have been developed over the decades. “ Union 2.1b '' & mdash; one of its latest upgrades belonging to the Soyuz-2 missile family. Two days ago, it launched a new nodal module, the Berth, into orbit, which will be added to the ISS.
The rocket consists of three stages, all disposable. Dimensions “ Union 2.1b '' are approximately 46.3 meters high and 2.95 meters in diameter. The total take-off weight is approximately 312,000 kg. The payload of a rocket in low earth orbit ranges from 6,600 to 7,400 kg, depending on the launch site.
Note that the brightest moment of the launch of the Soyuz-2 rocket is the separation of the blocks of the first stage. This happens about 2 minutes after launch. The side blocks form a pattern in the sky known as the royal cross. (named after Sergei Korolev, a very important figure in the space program and in the history of the USSR). The first stage of the Soyuz 2.1b launcher consists of four accelerators with RD-107A engines. Each side thruster has two deflecting thrusters which are used for flight control.
The central main stage is driven by an RD-108A engine and the upper stage is fitted with an RD-0124 engine. 0124 at this level is that he starts his engine before the stages are separated. This process is called “hot sharing”.
Source : NASASpaceflight.com
