http://arms-tass.su/?page=article&aid=64461&cid=125The first two Soyuz-ST rockets are almost ready. Their delivery to CSG is planned in summer of next year. The first launch is scheduled in the end of 2009. The last Russian over-overall cargoes will be delivered by Toukan ship.
It is the Toucan ship ! ;-)
Soyouz first launch
Quote from: Nicolas PILLET on 12/24/2008 05:08 pmSoyouz first launchSoyuz
Quote from: anik on 12/24/2008 05:48 pmQuote from: Nicolas PILLET on 12/24/2008 05:08 pmSoyouz first launchSoyuz Союз !!!!
Installation of the Soyuz launch system begins at Europe’s SpaceportFebruary 19, 2009Construction of Soyuz’ new French Guiana operating site has reached a major milestone with the installation start-up for its launch system – which will support and service the vehicle when it is erected for liftoff. This activity began with the placement of a multi-segment steel ring inset – known as the support crown – on the Soyuz’ concrete launch pad. It was followed by the mounting of the first of two umbilical masts, which are positioned atop the crown. Our pictures detail the initial steps in the launch system’s installation, as activity progresses toward completion of the Soyuz launch site later this year.http://www.arianespace.com/news-soyuz-vega/2009/2009_02_19_soyuz_launchsite_update.asp
This will be the first Soyuz launch site with a fixed ring. The digital Soyuz have roll control! The old Soyuz had to be pointed in the correct direction azimuth by rotating the launch platform.
Quote from: Stan Black on 02/25/2009 08:22 pmThis will be the first Soyuz launch site with a fixed ring. The digital Soyuz have roll control! The old Soyuz had to be pointed in the correct direction azimuth by rotating the launch platform.I have heard this for many years, but it does not seem obvious to me what benefit comes from twirling the Soyuz on the pad in terms of "pointing" the rocket.
Quote from: Danderman on 02/25/2009 09:42 pmQuote from: Stan Black on 02/25/2009 08:22 pmThis will be the first Soyuz launch site with a fixed ring. The digital Soyuz have roll control! The old Soyuz had to be pointed in the correct direction azimuth by rotating the launch platform.I have heard this for many years, but it does not seem obvious to me what benefit comes from twirling the Soyuz on the pad in terms of "pointing" the rocket.The trajectory calculation is reduced to 2 dimesions if the rocket has already pointed to the correct azimuth.