6 x Globalstar-2
Soyuz-2.1a/Fregat
Starsem SA
Rocket Launch Video
Mission
6 x Globalstar-2
- Type: Communications
- Orbit: Low Earth Orbit
- Launch Cost: $80,000,000
The Globalstar second-generation constellation consists of 24 Low Earth Orbiting satellites for satellite phone and data communications.
Location
31/6
Baikonur Cosmodrome, Republic of Kazakhstan
31/6 has witnessed the launch of 426 rockets, including 426 orbital launch attempts. While Baikonur Cosmodrome, Republic of Kazakhstan, has been the site for 1560 rocket launches.
The Baikonur Cosmodrome is a spaceport operated by Russia within Kazakhstan. Located in the Kazakh city of Baikonur, it is the largest operational space launch facility in terms of area. All Russian crewed spaceflights are launched from Baikonur.
Rocket
Progress Rocket Space Center Soyuz 2.1a Fregat-M
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.
Agency
Starsem SA
Starsem is a French-Russian company that was created in 1996 to commercialise the Soyuz launcher internationally.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Soyuz 2.1a/Fregat-M launch scheduled?
The Starsem SA Soyuz 2.1a/Fregat-M launch carrying the 6 x Globalstar-2 mission was scheduled for:
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Where can I watch the Soyuz 2.1a/Fregat-M launch video?
You can watch the Starsem SA Soyuz 2.1a/Fregat-M launch video on this page. The official video includes full mission coverage with multiple camera angles, onboard views, and expert commentary covering pre-launch procedures, liftoff, stage separation, and payload deployment.
Where did the Soyuz 2.1a/Fregat-M launch from?
The Starsem SA Soyuz 2.1a/Fregat-M rocket launched from 31/6 at Baikonur Cosmodrome, Republic of Kazakhstan. The Baikonur Cosmodrome is a spaceport operated by Russia within Kazakhstan. Located in the Kazakh city of Baikonur, it is the largest operational space launch facility in terms of area. All Russian crewed spaceflights are launched from Baikonur.
What rocket was used for the 6 x Globalstar-2 mission?
The 6 x Globalstar-2 mission launched aboard a Starsem SA Soyuz 2.1a/Fregat-M rocket. 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. Detailed rocket specifications and performance data are available in the rocket details above.
What weather conditions could have delayed this launch?
The Soyuz 2.1a/Fregat-M launch could have been delayed by various weather conditions including lightning within 10 nautical miles, high winds (especially upper-level winds), thick cloud layers, precipitation, and poor visibility. Weather must be favorable at the launch site, downrange landing zones, and abort landing sites.
How can I get updates if the launch is delayed?
This page is updated in real-time with the latest launch status, including any delays or scrubs. You can also check our space launch schedule for the most current information. Enable push notifications through our mobile app to receive instant alerts about launch status changes, weather holds, or new launch times. We recommend following official live streams for the most immediate range updates.
