Author Topic: Cancelled: Cyclone 4 from Alcantara (Read 147229 times)

Danderman · « **on:** 12/31/2009 10:37 pm »

http://www.alcantaracyclonespace.com/?lng=2

"The Alcântara Cyclone Space Binational company, ACS, is responsible for the commercialization and operation of launch services using the Cyclone-4 launch vehicle from its launch site in Alcântara.

ACS is the result of years of negotiation between Brazil and the Ukraine. Such negotiations formally started with the signing of a Frame-Agreement towards Cooperation in Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, on Nov. 18, 1999. The successful conclusion of the negotiations culminated with the signature, on Oct. 21, 2003, of a Long-Term Cooperation Agreement for the use of the Cyclone-4 Launch Vehicle at the Alcântara Space Center. The treaty was signed by the Brazilian Minister of Science and Technology, Roberto Amaral, and by the Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kostiantyn Gryshtchenko, in the presence of the Presidents of Brazil and Ukraine, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Leonid Kuchma.

ACS was officially established on Aug. 31, 2006, when the approved bylaws were published in the Brazilian Official Gazette (Diário Oficial da União - DOU) through Decree #599 of the Brazilian Ministry of Science and Technology. The first meeting of ACS’ Managing Council took place on Aug. 30, 2007. The initial investment of each country is US$4.5 million. The treaty establishes that both countries should increase the company’s capital to a total of US$ 105 million.

The company has an administrative office in Brasilia, Brazil and actively works towards establishing its launch site in Alcântara."

Danderman · « **Reply #1 on:** 12/31/2009 10:42 pm »

http://www.interfax.com.ua/eng/main/21691/

09.10.2009

"The construction of the Tsyklon-4 (Cyclone-4) space complex at Brazil's Alcantara space center is being carried out according to the schedule, Deputy Head of the National Space Agency of Ukraine Eduard Kuznetsov told Interfax-Ukraine on Thursday.

"The Cyclone-4 is being constructed according to the time frame. Many works are being done ahead of the schedule. There are minor deviations, but they will be eliminated and we will catch up with the schedule," he said.

The board of directors of the Ukrainian-Brazilian JV Alcantara Cyclone Space will discuss in Brazil in late October the urgent organizational, technical and financial measures in implementing the Cyclone-4 project, the official reminded.

"I believe all these issues will be settled at the directors' meeting," he said adding that the agenda includes the issue of increasing the program's budget.

The first launch of Cyclone-4 rocket from Alcantara space center has been scheduled for the end of 2010, Kuznetsov said."

Danderman · « **Reply #2 on:** 01/04/2010 02:08 am »

http://www.yuzhnoye.com/index.php?idD=69&id=124&path=News/News_e&lang=en

2009-12-03

On December, 3 the Defense Minister of the Federative Republic of Brazil Nelson Jobim paid a working visit to Yuzhnoye SDO and Yuzhmash.

At the working meeting of the Defense Minister of Brazil with the top managers and leading specialists of Yuzhnoye SDO and Yuzhmash, the status of space rocket hardware development was discussed, in the first turn, for joint Ukrainian-Brazilian project Cyclone-4.

During the visit to the general assembly workshop, Nelson Jobim and the members of Brazilian delegation familiarized themselves with the production of launch vehicles Cyclone-4, Zenit, Dnepr, rocket engines, spacecraft, rocket assemblies and components.

Also, a YouTube video of Cyclone 4 preparation, in Russian:

zaitcev · « **Reply #3 on:** 02/20/2010 05:09 am »

So Cyclone-4 is basically Cyclone-3 with ridiculously expensive (both in development and manufacturing) waffle-based fairing of large diameter. This seems way too ambitious for Brazil. Why reach so far when you haven't even launched one rocket successfuly? What are they going to put into that fairing?

-- Pete

P.S. Other pictures of the unit behind the group of dignitaries make it clear the 1st stage engines are not installed. Yet decals are in place already :-)

P.P.S. Wait, I see it now. They want to bust into the GTO market with their first rocket. That's pretty bold...

Danderman · « **Reply #4 on:** 02/20/2010 02:30 pm »

Brazil is not developing this launcher, any more than Long Beach developed the SeaLaunch LV. This is a Ukrainian effort, on Brazilian territory.

Fuji · « **Reply #5 on:** 04/12/2010 08:25 am »

Tsyklon-4 maiden flight will be launched August, 2011.
Japanese Nano-JASMINE satellite (35kg) will be launched this flight as piggy back payload. Officially confirmed this launch contract.

http://www.jasmine-galaxy.org/nano/nano-en.html

Skyrocket · « **Reply #6 on:** 04/12/2010 08:29 am »

Has there been any construction work for the ground infrastructure at Alcantara?

Danderman · « **Reply #7 on:** 04/12/2010 02:28 pm »

Quote from: Fuji on 04/12/2010 08:25 am

Tsyklon-4 maiden flight will be launched August, 2011.
Japanese Nano-JASMINE satellite (35kg) will be launched this flight as piggy back payload. Officially confirmed this launch contract.

http://www.jasmine-galaxy.org/nano/nano-en.html

It should be noted that this payload is intended for a sun synchronous orbit, whereas Cyclone 4 is designed for GTO missions.

Skyrocket · « **Reply #8 on:** 04/12/2010 02:41 pm »

Quote from: Danderman on 04/12/2010 02:28 pm

Quote from: Fuji on 04/12/2010 08:25 am
Tsyklon-4 maiden flight will be launched August, 2011.
Japanese Nano-JASMINE satellite (35kg) will be launched this flight as piggy back payload. Officially confirmed this launch contract.

http://www.jasmine-galaxy.org/nano/nano-en.html

It should be noted that this payload is intended for a sun synchronous orbit, whereas Cyclone 4 is designed for GTO missions.

Although Tsiklon-4 can provide a small GTO capacity of only 1600 kg, there is virtually no market for this class. The prime usage of Tsiklon-4 will be for LEO and SSO payloads.

Danderman · « **Reply #9 on:** 04/12/2010 02:45 pm »

Quote from: Skyrocket on 04/12/2010 02:41 pm

Quote from: Danderman on 04/12/2010 02:28 pm
Quote from: Fuji on 04/12/2010 08:25 am
Tsyklon-4 maiden flight will be launched August, 2011.
Japanese Nano-JASMINE satellite (35kg) will be launched this flight as piggy back payload. Officially confirmed this launch contract.

http://www.jasmine-galaxy.org/nano/nano-en.html

It should be noted that this payload is intended for a sun synchronous orbit, whereas Cyclone 4 is designed for GTO missions.

Although Tsiklon-4 can provide a small GTO capacity of only 1600 kg, there is virtually no market for this class. The prime usage of Tsiklon-4 will be for LEO and SSO payloads.

If that is the case, why build a new launch site in Brazil when there are already built Cyclone pads useful for LEO launches?

Salo · « **Reply #10 on:** 04/12/2010 08:15 pm »

GTO ambition.

Danderman · « **Reply #11 on:** 04/13/2010 02:58 am »

Quote from: Salo on 04/12/2010 08:15 pm

GTO ambition.

If this were really true, there would be no hope for Alcantara, since Cyclone can be launched to SSO from Russia or Kazakhstan. I would suspect that the real reason for the development of Alcantara is launch to GTO, but its not clear if the Ukrainians will be able to afford development of both a new launch site and a heavily modified LV.

osiossim · « **Reply #12 on:** 04/14/2010 11:02 am »

Quote from: Danderman on 04/13/2010 02:58 am

Quote from: Salo on 04/12/2010 08:15 pm
GTO ambition.

If this were really true, there would be no hope for Alcantara, since Cyclone can be launched to SSO from Russia or Kazakhstan. I would suspect that the real reason for the development of Alcantara is launch to GTO, but its not clear if the Ukrainians will be able to afford development of both a new launch site and a heavily modified LV.

Ukraine does not want to depend on Russia or Kazakhstan for launch business. That's why choosing any geographically, economically and politically other suitable country is an ultimate long term goal for Ukrainan government and SDOY.

Alcantara is in Brazil, ACS is bi-national commercial company, but the management is belong to Ukranian side as they manufacture the LV and construct the pad.

On the contrary, Roscosmos and Russian government is pushing for RUS-M and Angara to replace Dnepr, Zenit (Both Land Launch and Sea Launch versions) and Tsiklon-3 (also their own Proton) to be independent from Ukranians.

Olaf · « **Reply #13 on:** 09/02/2010 10:10 pm »

According to http://de.rian.ru/science/20100830/257191993.html the first launch of a Cyclone-4 from Alcantara will be in 2012.

bolun · « **Reply #14 on:** 10/08/2010 09:31 pm »

ACS Lays Foundation Stone of its Launch Site in Alcantara

In the morning of September 9th, 2010, the Ukraine-Brazil Alcantara Cyclone Space Binational Company (ACS) gave a start to the construction activities of its launch site. The foundation stone, laid at the future entrance to the launch site, was inaugurated by Sergio Rezende, Minister of Science and Technology of Brazil, and Igor Hrushkó, Ambassador of Ukraine in the Federative Republic of Brazil, jointly with General Directors of ACS, Oleksandr Serdyuk and Roberto Amaral.

About Alcantara Cyclone Space

Alcantara Cyclone Space is a binational company created by the Treaty between Ukraine and Brazil on Long-term Cooperation in Utilization of the Cyclone-4 Launch Vehicle at the Alcantara Launch Center, with the purpose of building in Brazil of a launch site and commercialization of space launch services by the Ukraine-made Cyclone-4 Launch Vehicle, a medium-class launcher capable of lifting up to 5300 kg into the Low Earth Orbit and 1600 kg into the Geostationary Transfer Orbit. The maiden flight of the Cyclone-4 Launch Vehicle is scheduled to take place in February 2012.

http://www.alcantaracyclonespace.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=306&Itemid=353

Danderman · « **Reply #15 on:** 10/20/2010 06:30 am »

Another image of the Cyclone 4 hardware in Dnipro.

Satori · « **Reply #16 on:** 01/11/2011 09:52 am »

From Xinhua,
Brazilian, Ukrainian presidents discuss rocket launch.

baldusi · « **Reply #17 on:** 01/11/2011 08:02 pm »

Quote from: Skyrocket on 04/12/2010 02:41 pm

Although Tsiklon-4 can provide a small GTO capacity of only 1600 kg, there is virtually no market for this class. The prime usage of Tsiklon-4 will be for LEO and SSO payloads.

Unless the Brazilian government wants to also make some small GTO satellites. Or they want to help their program watching someone else work. There's also the chance that they might open their range to other users. Korou is apparently used by ESA and Russia, so I don't think they will have an Angara or Rus-M launching from Brasil. India is very fine with where they are, ditto for China (which I seriously doubt would send anything abroad. But Ukrania is a very nice partner there.
With Argentina there's a lot of satellite development. In fact INVAP (they made the SAC-C and SAC-D and are working on a couple of SAR satellites) have stated that they intend to work towards small and modular satellites that can work in parallel, or even bolt-on in space. Sweden might help here too. So having a less capable launch vehicle (at start) might help them (and us) to develop the technologies to integrate in space. Meanwhile, Argentina is using SpaceX for launches.

osiossim · « **Reply #18 on:** 01/12/2011 09:22 am »

Quote from: baldusi on 01/11/2011 08:02 pm

Quote from: Skyrocket on 04/12/2010 02:41 pm
Although Tsiklon-4 can provide a small GTO capacity of only 1600 kg, there is virtually no market for this class. The prime usage of Tsiklon-4 will be for LEO and SSO payloads.
Unless the Brazilian government wants to also make some small GTO satellites. Or they want to help their program watching someone else work. There's also the chance that they might open their range to other users. Korou is apparently used by ESA and Russia, so I don't think they will have an Angara or Rus-M launching from Brasil. India is very fine with where they are, ditto for China (which I seriously doubt would send anything abroad. But Ukrania is a very nice partner there.
With Argentina there's a lot of satellite development. In fact INVAP (they made the SAC-C and SAC-D and are working on a couple of SAR satellites) have stated that they intend to work towards small and modular satellites that can work in parallel, or even bolt-on in space. Sweden might help here too. So having a less capable launch vehicle (at start) might help them (and us) to develop the technologies to integrate in space. Meanwhile, Argentina is using SpaceX for launches.

Brazil is working with Ukraine for already qualified launch vehicle for commercial purposes; Cyclone-4. Additionally, Russian MDB is helping Brazil to upgrade VLS.

So, there is alreay something going on in Brazil. I dont think they will add the 3rd alternative as Sweden, China or elsewhere. Yuzhnoye is already the the best partner they could ever have.

baldusi · « **Reply #19 on:** 01/12/2011 01:09 pm »

I'm sorry I didn't made myself clear. Brazil and Argentina develops satellites together (in fact, SAC-D/Aquarius is using the testing chambers of Brazil, and SAC-E will be binational). Where I said that Sweden could help was in the area of satellite control and navigation, as they have demonstrated a pair of satellites approaching to centimeters of each other and then flying away. That's the kind of technology that the Mercosur wants to master. Given the realities of budget around here, if we can get a modular satellite and build it piece wise over the years, even if it's more expensive and riskier on the long run, it would be possible, which the monolithic satellite wouldn't. Besides, since overhead costs here are so cheap in comparison to the first world countries, it makes sense.

Danderman · « **Reply #20 on:** 01/12/2011 01:12 pm »

I don't think that Brazil can afford much more than Cyclone and VLS at this time, if even that. To worry about more advanced projects when these two long-standing projects aren't making much progress is probably not productive.

baldusi · « **Reply #21 on:** 01/12/2011 01:54 pm »

Quote from: Danderman on 01/12/2011 01:12 pm

I don't think that Brazil can afford much more than Cyclone and VLS at this time, if even that. To worry about more advanced projects when these two long-standing projects aren't making much progress is probably not productive.

The 201x Brazil is not your third country of old. They are growing at chinese pace, with a better relationship of city dweller, a huge agricultural base, a very knowledgeable upper class, a new but powerful middle class, a policy of world integration and a very clear desire to be a new world power. You'd be surprised how much have they advanced and how much money there is. I've seen A380 offered in magazines for rich individuals.
But most importantly, they have bought nuclear submarines technology and the whole Rafale technology from France. Embraer is the world leader in their segment. And they even have an ISS interest. Developing a space industry is very expensive. But they will partner until they get the expertise they need. As of now it seems Argentina is the satellite partner (natural, I might say), Ukraine is the LV partners, and USA the astronaut partner, with Russia as a general consultant. I will bet pennies to dollars they will have the whole thing native in the late 202x. And, if there isn't some technological breakthrough, they will be contenders in GTO launches by 2030.

Danderman · « **Reply #22 on:** 01/12/2011 02:02 pm »

Actual near term progress on Cyclone-4 will resolve this question.

baldusi · « **Reply #23 on:** 01/13/2011 01:38 pm »

I've just thought. Nuclear powered submarines, solid LV development, the biggest oil deep ocean reserves, Venezuela's armament buys. Couldn't Brazil be buying and researching the technologies to make a submarine launched ICBM?

Danderman · « **Reply #24 on:** 01/13/2011 03:36 pm »

Quote from: baldusi on 01/13/2011 01:38 pm

I've just thought. Nuclear powered submarines, solid LV development, the biggest oil deep ocean reserves, Venezuela's armament buys. Couldn't Brazil be buying and researching the technologies to make a submarine launched ICBM?

Maybe, but this has nothing to do with Cyclone-4, unless Brazil is planning the world's largest submarine.

baldusi · « **Reply #25 on:** 01/13/2011 03:49 pm »

Quote from: Danderman on 01/13/2011 03:36 pm

Maybe, but this has nothing to do with Cyclone-4, unless Brazil is planning the world's largest submarine.

Sorry for going off topic.
Back on topic (sort of). I was surprised at how more light are the new Uragan-k satellites (750kg vs 1500kg), supposedly the main difference was in going with an unpressurized satellite bus. Are GSO satellites normally pressurized?

Danderman · « **Reply #26 on:** 01/13/2011 04:09 pm »

That's a question for a different thread.

osiossim · « **Reply #27 on:** 01/19/2011 07:32 am »

http://poslezavtra.com.ua/ukraina-mozhet-sorvat-uchastie-v-mezhdunarodnom-proekte/

According to machine translation;

Lack of funding may derail Ukraine's participation in the international project "Cyclone-4. This opinion was expressed by the chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on National Security and Defense Anatoliy Gritsenko, "We have heard the chairman of the National Space Agency with respect to funding, which provided us more worried that with the current government of Yanukovych, Azarov no understanding of what the space industry", - said Gritsenko.

At the same time, he explained that "with proper approach every penny to invest in the space industry, gives 10.7 cents of profit, and this new technology, technology jobs, build export capacity." "The world is not so much space powers, and the Ukraine - one of them" - said Gritsenko, adding that our country has a positive experience participating in international projects. For example, such as Sea Launch. According to him, the second large-scale space projects is the "Cyclone-4" in which Ukraine cooperates with Brazil.

"Ukraine has been actively involved in the construction of launch site for sharing. Already formed a joint venture, our people are already working in the jungle isolated place, where the launch site is under construction, but the government has not yet been allocated funds to ensure that Ukraine has made a contribution to the authorized capital of this company, "- said Gritsenko. He stressed that under such circumstances is jeopardized by the participation of Ukraine in this powerful infrastructure projects.

Danderman · « **Reply #28 on:** 01/19/2011 04:04 pm »

No bucks, no Buck Rogers.

osiossim · « **Reply #29 on:** 02/16/2011 05:58 am »

Yanukovych promises support to Ukrainian space rocket projects

http://www.interfax.com/newsinf.asp?id=222577

osiossim · « **Reply #30 on:** 04/15/2011 11:38 am »

Kyiv, Brasilia want to build international space center in Alcantara by 2014, says Azarov

http://www.interfax.com.ua/eng/main/66375/

Danderman · « **Reply #31 on:** 04/16/2011 12:26 am »

Quote from: osiossim on 04/15/2011 11:38 am

Kyiv, Brasilia want to build international space center in Alcantara by 2014, says Azarov

http://www.interfax.com.ua/eng/main/66375/

This is becoming a very sad thread.

Olaf · « **Reply #32 on:** 04/18/2011 10:22 pm »

Here some news.
http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_channel.jsp?channel=space&id=news/asd/2011/04/18/01.xml&headline=Ukraine And Brazil Prepare Cyclone-4 Launch

Danderman · « **Reply #33 on:** 07/05/2011 10:25 pm »

http://www.jasmine-galaxy.org/nano/nano-en.html

Nano-JASMINE is the technical demonstrator of JASMINE mission, and also the first space astrometry satellite mission in JAPAN. It will be launched at Aug. 2011 from Alcantara Launch Center at Brazil by Cyclon-4 rocket.

Skyrocket · « **Reply #34 on:** 07/06/2011 05:54 am »

Quote from: Danderman on 07/05/2011 10:25 pm

http://www.jasmine-galaxy.org/nano/nano-en.html

Nano-JASMINE is the technical demonstrator of JASMINE mission, and also the first space astrometry satellite mission in JAPAN. It will be launched at Aug. 2011 from Alcantara Launch Center at Brazil by Cyclon-4 rocket.

The Aug. 2011 launch date has been on this page for a long time and is completely outdated now. The ACS website talks about a maiden launch in Feb. 2012, but i guess, it will likely be later.

baldusi · « **Reply #35 on:** 07/06/2011 02:43 pm »

If you read the declarations of the Science and Technology Minister of Brazil here (Portuguese) on June 28th, he states that they want to review their agreement with Ukraine. The reason is that they were supposed to invest the same amount each. But currently Brazil is investing twice the amount of Ukraine.
So, according to here (Portuguese), neither Brazil nor Ukraine are currently investing enough to make the launch next year. Supposedly the Brazilians would put the infrastructure, and the Ukranians the rocket. But what I understand is that since Ukrania is not financing the rocket, the Brazilians decided to slow down their half of the investment. Not because they don't have the money, but because they feel that it's not working as an equals partnership.
Besides, the rumor today was that there's going to be a huge reorganization of the space program in Brazil. It's not clear how they will handle the civil vs military applications parts (AEB vs IAE and DCTA). But let's recall that Alcantara is a military base, too. So more sad news. A real shame since it's an amazing LV opportunity for us here in South America. in particular, the SAE-MAR small satellites of binational satellites could be launched in a Cyclone-4, thus, not depending one third countries, except for certain (albeit critical) satellite parts.

Danderman · « **Reply #36 on:** 12/28/2011 04:21 am »

The Presidents of the 2 countries met again, and promised that all necessary funding will be made available. The result is that first launch is now pushed back to 2013.

There is talk of a Cyclone-5, too.

Danderman · « **Reply #37 on:** 03/01/2012 03:25 pm »

http://www.ria.ru/science/20120228/579311465.html

from Google Translate:

According to Alexeev, Ukrainian rockets launch now from four space centers, and the implementation of the ambitious project, "Alcantara Cyclone Space 4" will allow Ukraine in 2013 to launch a new carrier rocket "Cyclone-4" from the Ukrainian-Brazilian Alcantara space center.

Danderman · « **Reply #38 on:** 03/02/2012 02:59 pm »

http://34.ua/news/economic/tenders/3999-kb-yuzhnoe-zakazalo-issledovanie-pc-alkantara.html

09.02.2012

From Google Translate:

State Enterprise "Design Bureau" Yuzhnoye " named after MK Yangel "is in talks with the airline UMZ of research and development capacity of the airport," Alcantara ". It is reported in "Journal of Public Procurement."

The State Enterprise Design Office Yuzhnoye named after MK Yangel announced a tender for services for the organizational work on the reconnaissance survey of the existing airport runway at the launch center "Alcantara" (Federal Republic of Brazil) in order to further develop possible solutions to the aviation transportation component parts of a space rocket "Cyclone-4" on the PC, "Alcantara" AN-124 aircraft.

Participant in the negotiations is a company Aviation Transport Company "Yuzmashavia" Enterprise "Production Association Southern Machine-Building Plant. AM Makarov ".

Price, which is evaluated the performance of work is 552,336 USD. The work must be completed before December 31, 2012.

Salo Ukr · « **Reply #39 on:** 05/09/2012 08:27 am »

News from Alcantara (russian):
http://www.nkau.gov.ua/nsau/newsnsau.nsf/mainsubjectsR/694C275BCB1E2574C22579F8004A7268?openDocument&Lang=R

Salo Ukr · « **Reply #40 on:** 05/27/2012 10:13 pm »

Conselho de Administração aprova cronograma que prevê primeiro lançamento em novembro de 2013

Danderman · « **Reply #41 on:** 05/28/2012 04:24 am »

The construction is significant, but the November 2013 launch date seems to be based on someone raising more capital.

baldusi · « **Reply #42 on:** 05/28/2012 11:19 am »

Quote from: Danderman on 05/28/2012 04:24 am

The construction is significant, but the November 2013 launch date seems to be based on someone raising more capital.

Actually, what it says is that they approved the company's books, and decided to raise the stock amount. We don't know if this means that they will need more capital, or just that they are capitalizing the planned investments. I'll go around and ask.

baldusi · « **Reply #43 on:** 05/28/2012 11:22 am »

These are the tracking instruments of Alcantara.

Danderman · « **Reply #44 on:** 06/03/2012 01:29 pm »

From the NK forum, a YouTube video of a test of the Cyclone 4 erector:

Danderman · « **Reply #45 on:** 06/03/2012 01:37 pm »

http://technique.com.ua/rus/articles/56/687/

01.08.2011

from Google Translate:

Total PAO "Azovzagalmash" (included in the JSC "Azovmash") develops nine projects under the project Alcantara Cyclone Space.
In the scientific and technical complex CHAO "AzovElectroStal" and head design office specialized railcar named V.M.Bubnova projects nearing completion of tank-containers, zones, fuel storage, neutralization station, removable equipment and systems for spacecraft.
Now one of them for the supply of tank containers for transportation of fuel and oxidant is under contract.

Recall that on July 6, "Azovzagalmash" delegation visited the Brazilian Space Agency, headed by its President Dr. Rauppom and representatives of BC ACS NSAU.
First Deputy General Director of OJSC "Azovmash" Vladimir Telytsya briefed the guests on business, they visited the shop to see the realization of projects in the product. This is a ground transport units for transportation of parts for future missile systems, fuel and oxidizer filling, data collection and neutralization of industrial wastes.
Praised the work done BCA President Marco Antonio Raupp. - We have seen that "Azovmash" - a reliable partner. Seen proves it. Efforts by companies to implement the orders of our BC Partner ACS approximate first rocket launch from the Baikonur Brazil.

Danderman · « **Reply #46 on:** 06/08/2012 06:27 pm »

Quote from: Danderman on 07/05/2011 10:25 pm

http://www.jasmine-galaxy.org/nano/nano-en.html

Nano-JASMINE is the technical demonstrator of JASMINE mission, and also the first space astrometry satellite mission in JAPAN. It will be launched at Aug. 2011 from Alcantara Launch Center at Brazil by Cyclon-4 rocket.

Now changed to:

" It will be launched at Nov. 2013"

Danderman · « **Reply #47 on:** 06/20/2012 02:15 pm »

Based on the activity on the Alcantara web site, it looks like a launch sometime late next year or in 2014 is possible.

Alexsander · « **Reply #48 on:** 06/20/2012 02:37 pm »

http://www1.folha.uol.com.br/ciencia/1103456-projeto-para-lancar-satelite-de-base-no-maranhao-esta-travado.shtml

ACS is not paying the building contractors, they already halved the number of workers and are threatening to stop the construction. Oleksandr Serdyuk said basically "no flight for 2013". Serdyuk also said the extra US$ 200 million they ask now are "cheap compared to stadiums for World Cup 2014".

Danderman · « **Reply #49 on:** 06/20/2012 03:27 pm »

Yep, the article says that they are underwater financially.

Alexsander · « **Reply #50 on:** 06/25/2012 02:34 pm »

Quote from: Danderman on 06/20/2012 03:27 pm

Yep, the article says that they are underwater financially.

Update: 14-day strike ended with promise of "no more strikes until november"; workers will get "cesta básica" (common in Brazil, it's a big bag with food items like 10 pounds of rice and other non-perishable) and right to add a dependent (probably a spouse) to health-care plan.
http://g1.globo.com/ma/maranhao/noticia/2012/06/greve-no-centro-de-lancamento-de-alcantara-chega-ao-fim.html

Danderman · « **Reply #51 on:** 07/11/2012 03:54 pm »

Here is the website for the RD-861K engine to be used as the Cyclone 4 3rd stage:

http://www.yuzhnoye.com/index.php?id=148&path=Aerospace%20Technology/Rocket%20Propulsion/Liquid%20Engines/Sustainers/RD-861K/RD-861K_e&lang=en

Apparently, its an upgrade of the Cyclone 3 stage, with an extra 15 seconds of ISP.

Satori · « **Reply #52 on:** 07/29/2012 05:01 pm »

According to José Raimundo Braga Coelho, President of the Brazilian Space Agency, this launch will only now take place in 2014.

osiossim · « **Reply #53 on:** 08/06/2012 07:23 am »

According to the news here, Ukraine and Brazil have already started developing Cyclone-5.

http://www.rbc.ua/rus/top/show/ukraina-i-braziliya-nachali-razrabotku-novogo-raketonositelya-03082012152700

I wonder where the money comes from and what is the main reason behind this work, while C4 is not even launched?

Also, according to the news, there is huge debt to launch site contractors and while employees are in strikes in Brazil, it seems like the governments gave the priority to the launch vehicle, not to the launch site.

baldusi · « **Reply #54 on:** 08/06/2012 12:34 pm »

The problem with Cyclone-4 is that's it's payload capacity is too small for the comm market (1.6tonnes to GTO), for which the site is awesome. But it's a nice LV for the Earth Observation market. With 3.4tonnes to a 700km SSO orbit and a 4m fairing, you can launch quite a bit of payloads. So it will compete with Vega and Rockot.
It does uses some extremely nasty fuels, and the Brazilians are getting almost zero technology into it. So it's more like a useful first step, but it's not really a great project long term.
The new Boeing 702LP platform might have shaken them up a bit. If you can get a 2.1tonnes payload to GTO, then they could get into the small comm satellite market. And let's remember that a 2.1tonnes 702SP is sort of equivalent to a 3.5tonne liquid fuel sate, so it's at least 1/3 of the market. Since they can launch at something like 5 degrees (alcantara is at less than 3), the SEP phase would be mostly circularization. If they can simultaneously increase payload to GTO by 30% and put some Brazilian technology, Cyclone 5 might happen. After all, the Brazilians have already stated that they won't take the Estrella do Sul project high enough to compete with Cyclone 4.
I still doubt a bit because currently the market or small satellites is going to cheaper multi manifest rockets (like Ariane 5, Proton and Falcon 9)

Danderman · « **Reply #55 on:** 08/06/2012 01:50 pm »

The current Cyclone-4 capability can be augmented with SRBs to provide a much larger payload, per the user guide.

Also, the current price of Dnepr is rumored to be around $24 million for LEO payloads, so Cyclone-4 should be competitive for some LEO payloads. Of course, there continues the problem that Brazil never signed the MTCR, so US payloads may never fly on Cyclone-4.

baldusi · « **Reply #56 on:** 08/06/2012 02:09 pm »

Quote from: Danderman on 08/06/2012 01:50 pm

The current Cyclone-4 capability can be augmented with SRBs to provide a much larger payload, per the user guide.

Are you reading the v02 document? I did find that a 2tonnes to GTO version "is in development". But nothing about solid thrust augmentation. Youzhoe have lots of experience in automated launch procedures, but their systems are not very compatible with solid boosters. The alignment issues alone require vertical integration, and all their experience is on horizontal integration and automated pads. Which is a very difficult process to add solids.
I guess the Brazilians might want to add a CH4/LOX engine to the upper stage. But the MTCR might be a slight issue there, since Ukraine did signed it.

Quote

Also, the current price of Dnepr is rumored to be around $24 million for LEO payloads, so Cyclone-4 should be competitive for some LEO payloads. Of course, there continues the problem that Brazil never signed the MTCR, so US payloads may never fly on Cyclone-4.

I stated that they have a nice LV for Earth observation. But the MTCR issue and other political considerations might go into play. I think Brazil will eventually sign in. They are finding that almost everybody who has any significant technology has already signed, and they are more "customers" of such technology rather than exporters. We'll have to see also how the FX-2 and FX-3 contracts play out. Boeing has a lot of pull to give waivers and exceptions.

Danderman · « **Reply #57 on:** 08/07/2012 12:56 am »

Quote from: baldusi on 08/06/2012 02:09 pm

Are you reading the v02 document? I did find that a 2tonnes to GTO version "is in development".

I have a user guide from Yuzhnoye that is about 10 years old.

Salo Ukr · « **Reply #58 on:** 08/07/2012 01:12 pm »

http://gorod.dp.ua/news/74442

Salo Ukr · « **Reply #59 on:** 08/10/2012 07:45 pm »

http://news.mail.ru/inworld/ukraina/global/112/politics/9877114/gallery/

Salo Ukr · « **Reply #60 on:** 08/13/2012 07:47 pm »

http://www.nkau.gov.ua/nsau/newsnsau.nsf/HronolR/2DCA6C413E9DCBEFC2257A53004864CC

Satori · « **Reply #61 on:** 10/16/2012 09:56 pm »

According to http://panoramaespacial.blogspot.pt/2012/10/itasat-1-no-voo-inaugural-do-cyclone-4.html (in Portuguese) the first launch of the Tsyklon-4 from Alcantara will probably also carry the ITASAT-1 Brazilian satellite.

Danderman · « **Reply #62 on:** 10/17/2012 02:53 am »

Quote from: Satori on 10/16/2012 09:56 pm

According to http://panoramaespacial.blogspot.pt/2012/10/itasat-1-no-voo-inaugural-do-cyclone-4.html (in Portuguese) the first launch of the Tsyklon-4 from Alcantara will probably also carry the ITASAT-1 Brazilian satellite.

In November 2013? Really?

Prober · « **Reply #63 on:** 10/17/2012 03:23 am »

Quote from: Danderman on 10/17/2012 02:53 am

Quote from: Satori on 10/16/2012 09:56 pm
According to http://panoramaespacial.blogspot.pt/2012/10/itasat-1-no-voo-inaugural-do-cyclone-4.html (in Portuguese) the first launch of the Tsyklon-4 from Alcantara will probably also carry the ITASAT-1 Brazilian satellite.

In November 2013? Really?

too little too late.

baldusi · « **Reply #64 on:** 10/17/2012 01:39 pm »

Remember that's Brazil. And 2014 is the World Cup year. I guess there will be a rush to get "important" milestones done on Q1, to make them "el mais grande du mundo". Don't expect much work done between June and August. I know my productivity will be hit heavily.

Satori · « **Reply #65 on:** 10/19/2012 11:22 am »

Quote from: baldusi on 10/17/2012 01:39 pm

Remember that's Brazil. And 2014 is the World Cup year. I guess there will be a rush to get "important" milestones done on Q1, to make them "el mais grande du mundo". Don't expect much work done between June and August. I know my productivity will be hit heavily.

"o mais grande do mundo"

input~2 · « **Reply #66 on:** 10/20/2012 12:04 pm »

Brazil, Ukraine set satellite launch for 2014

Danderman · « **Reply #67 on:** 12/05/2012 06:41 pm »

Azovmash to start producing second batch of special equipment for Cyclone-4 rocket in 2013

http://www.interfax.co.uk/ukraine-news/azovmash-to-start-producing-second-batch-of-special-equipment-for-cyclone-4-rocket-in-2013/

Kyiv, December 3 (Interfax-Ukraine) – PJSC Azovzahalmash, part of PJSC Azovmash (both based in Mariupol, Donetsk region), is preparing to start in 2013 the production of the second batch of special equipment for the Cyclone-4 rocket space complex, which is being constructed by Ukraine and Brazil at the Alcantara spaceport (Brazil), the company’s press service has said.

The tests of four experimental tank containers for shipment of rocket fuel components, which were produced by the company for the space rocket complex, are scheduled for early 2013, Interfax-Ukraine learned at the press service.

“After the completion of testing of an experimental batch of tank containers, a decision will be taken whether to start the serial production of the special equipment. A total of 43 tank containers are to be produced under the contract,” the official said.

Azovzahalmash produced and shipped in June 2012 the first batch of special equipment for the Cyclone-4 rocket space complex. Systems for servicing the booster were supplied to the customer, including fuel and oxidizer filling facilities, and systems for the collection and neutralization of industrial wastewater.

Ukraine and Brazil signed an agreement in 2003 on long-term cooperation in constructing the Cyclone-4 space rocket complex at Brazil’s Alcantara space center.

The first launch of the Cyclone 4 launch vehicle is scheduled for late 2013.

Azovmash is a famous Ukrainian supplier of wagons, mining and crane equipment, fuelers, car carriers and other products on the international market.

Danderman · « **Reply #68 on:** 12/05/2012 06:43 pm »

Danderman · « **Reply #69 on:** 12/05/2012 06:52 pm »

SABIA (SAC-E)

http://www.conae.gov.ar/eng/satelites/sac-e.html

The Argentine-Brazilian Satellite for Information on Food, Water and Environment (SABIA - Satélite Argentino-Brasileño de Información en Alimento, Agua y Ambiente), by the name of SAC-E, is part of the SAC series. CONAE, the Brazilian Space Agency (AEB), and the Brazilian Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas Espaciais (INPE) conduct this Earth observing mission in the framework of a space cooperation program.

The main objective of the mission is to collect and provide data on water and food production, with high spectral, geometrical and temporal resolution over the Mercosur area.

This is a payload that Brazil hopes to launch on Cyclone-4.

Galactic Penguin SST · « **Reply #70 on:** 04/10/2013 11:21 am »

The Ukrainans are now saying late 2014 for its first launch: http://novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/forum/messages/forum13/topic7430/message1057787/#message1057787

I saw that its launch backlog is very thin - is it known if some other payloads are considering this as the launcher? $:-\$

Salo · « **Reply #71 on:** 06/08/2013 08:34 pm »

Azovmash ships transport systems for space complex Tsyklon 4 in Brazil

KYIV, May 16 /UKRINFORM/. Joint Stock Company Azovmash has shipped transport systems for the space rocket complex Tsyklon 4 on the Alcantara space center in Brazil as part of a joint Ukrainian-Brazilian project, a correspondent of UKRINFORM reported.

"The units created in Mariupol were sent by sea to Latin America, where Brazil and Ukraine are building the spaceport Alcantara," the company's director general, Ihor Karpeichyk, told the press.

Mariupol produces reinforcement and pumping units, tank containers for temporary storage of oxidants and fuels; Azovmash designers are also finalizing a number of other systems for the space rocket complex Tsyklon 4.

The project Tsyklon 4 is implemented according to the October 21, 2003 agreement between Ukraine and the Federative Republic of Brazil on long-term cooperation in the use of the carrier rocket Tsyklon 4 at the Alcantara launch center. The project is implemented by the Ukrainian-Brazilian JV Alcantara Cyclone Space, created in 2006.

Ukraine provides the development of the carrier rocket Tsyklon 4 and preparation of the production base for its manufacture. Brazil provides the creation of the general infrastructure of the start-up center. On a parity basis, the partners are creating a ground complex for launches of the carrier rocket Tsyklon 4.

The very construction of the ground-based complex for Tsyklon 4 in Brazil was launched in 2010. Its area is about 50 hectares.

The first launch has already been postponed several times. But in April, Deputy Prime Minister Yuriy Boiko stated categorically that the first launch of the carrier rocket Tsyklon 4 at the Alcantara launch center in Brazil will take place at the end of 2014.

"We are going according to schedule both in the construction of the cosmodrome with its infrastructure, and in building the rocket and the satellite. The term of the first launch is the end of 2014, and we are confident that we will be ready by this time," Yuriy Boiko said.

http://www.ukrinform.ua/eng/news/azovmash_ships_transport_systems_for_space_complex_tsyklon_4_in_brazil_303369

Danderman · « **Reply #72 on:** 07/05/2013 11:52 pm »

Ukraine called on Brazil to stir up financing of Cyclone-4 project

http://www.kmu.gov.ua/control/en/publish/article?art_id=246490342

Ukraine has called on Brazil to find financing in order to continue realization of the Cyclone-4 project.

Prime Minister Mykola Azarov announced during a meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Brazil Antonio Patriota.

“An objectively successful project of our cooperation appears the Cyclone-4 Alcantara. The reliable realization of this project will contribute to increasing the authority of both your and our countries. In this complex situation the Government of Ukraine has approved a decision: for realization of this project to draw credit resources. We hope that the Brazilian side would use every opportunity to continue financing of their part of the project,” he said.

Mykola Azarov stressed that Brazil appeared the principal strategic trade and economic partner of Ukraine in the Latin America and in whole the economic relations between the two states were developing not bad. However, according to the Premier, the foreign trade relations face certain problems: notably, Ukraine considers groundless making two anti-dumping investigations by the Brazilian party concerning Ukrainian producers of rolled iron and auto tyres.

According to the Head of Government, activization of bilateral relations will facilitate holding of the sixth sitting of Ukrainian-Brazilian intergovernmental commission. “It is extremely important to hold the sixth sitting of Ukrainian-Brazilian intergovernmental commission and we are ready to fix the date of such meeting,” the Prime Minister said.

In other words, no bucks, no Buck Rogers.

Salo · « **Reply #73 on:** 07/27/2013 01:33 pm »

Brazil’s Cyclone-4 Project Hits Another Snag as Workers Laid Off

Prober · « **Reply #74 on:** 07/27/2013 05:11 pm »

Quote from: Salo on 07/27/2013 01:33 pm

Brazil’s Cyclone-4 Project Hits Another Snag as Workers Laid Off

http://www.parabolicarc.com/2009/10/19/ukraine-brazil-deepen-space-ties-cyclone-launch-nears/cyclone-4/

The Olympics among other things is eating cash.

anik · « **Reply #75 on:** 09/13/2013 04:44 pm »

Tsiklon-4 facilities are on Bing Maps.

Danderman · « **Reply #76 on:** 09/13/2013 06:10 pm »

Happy news:

http://www.ebc.com.br/tecnologia/2013/08/empresa-que-lancara-foguetes-de-alcantara-recebera-r-333-milhoes

Empresa que lançará foguetes de Alcântara recebe R$ 33,33 milhões

This means that the company that will launch rockets from Alcantara has received 33,33 million REAIS from the federal government. I don't know if this mean 33.33 million or some other amount. If it's 33.33 million, that is about $15 million, which is tiny for US aerospace, but would keep the lights on a little longer in Brazil.

Salo · « **Reply #77 on:** 09/17/2013 11:56 am »

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdtt4pn2qKY&feature=youtu.be

Salo · « **Reply #78 on:** 09/17/2013 11:58 am »

Another video:
http://11channel.dp.ua/news/dp/2013/09/13/22424.html

Salo · « **Reply #79 on:** 09/17/2013 12:22 pm »

Some pictures:
http://34.ua/24084-ciklon-raketa.html

Danderman · « **Reply #80 on:** 09/17/2013 05:26 pm »

I believe that this video is from last year. The launch complex seems to be at the site of the manufacturer in the Ukraine - I am not sure if this actual hardware will be disassembled and then transported to Brazil, or if the hardware is merely some sort of prototype.

When we see the hardware in Alcantara, then we will be close to first launch.

Salo · « **Reply #81 on:** 09/26/2013 11:59 am »

Ukraine, Brazil Prepare for 2015 Cyclone 4 Launch
Posted by Amy Svitak 3:09 AM on Sep 24, 2013

Brazilian-Ukainian joint venture Alcantara Cyclone Space (ACS) continues preparations for the 2015 debut of a new variant of the Cyclone rocket fr om a 30-year-old launch facility on Brazil's north-Atlantic coast.

At 2.3 deg. N. Lat., Alcantara is even closer to the Equator than Europe's Guiana Space Center in Kourou, wh ere commercial launch services consortium Arianespace manages missions of Europe's heavy-lift Ariane 5, Russia's medium-class Soyuz and Italy's Vega light launcher. From Alcantara, ACS's three-stage Cyclone 4 rocket—equipped with a restartable upper stage engine and 4-m payload fairing—is designed to put 5,685 kg. (12,500 lb.) into a circular low Earth orbit at 200 km (124 mi.), and a 3,910-kg spacecraft to a 400-km sun-synchronous orbit.
For geostationary missions, Cyclone 4 will initially deliver a 1,600 kg into geostationary transfer orbit. The goal, however, is to gradually boost performance to 2,200 kg with per-launch costs ranging from $50-$55 million.

“Originally, we were planning to focus on LEO only. But now, as we're witnessing the growth of electric propulsion satellites, we're working to increase payload capability,” says ACS Chief Commercial Officer Sergiy Guchenkov.

Manufactured in Ukraine by the Yuzhnoye State Design Office, Cyclone 4 will use first and second stages similar to the Soviet-era Cyclone 2 and Cyclone 3 rockets. Guchenkov notes that the first and second stages of the Cyclone 2 and Cyclone 3 rockets have launched 228 times with just one failure, which he says was due to a first-stage propellant leak.

An all-new third stage based on Ukrainian Zenit and Dnepr technology will carry up to 9 tons of propellant and allow Cyclone 4 to execute up to five burns.

Since breaking ground on the ACS launch pad in 2010, the government-backed venture has spent close to $300 million developing the site, which is now 48% complete. The project is running almost three years behind schedule, however, as funding delays and legal wrangling with local tribes has stalled development of the launch center. In May, Guchenkov says the governments of Ukraine and Brazil jointly approved an increase in total ACS spending for the site, from around $487 million to $918 million.

He says ACS is planning to complete construction of the launch pad at Alcantara next year, with Cyclone 4 hardware delivery and testing at the site to begin in early 2015. He says the launch vehicle is 76% complete and has undergone 73% of its scheduled test regime, including completion of ground tests.

Guchenkov says ACS expects to conduct a qualificaiton mission of Cyclone 4 in late 2015, launching multiple small payloads to low Earth orbit, including a Japanese satellite.

Soheil · « **Reply #82 on:** 09/26/2013 12:18 pm »

2015 !!!

another time !?

I bet ! they can't make it operational before 2020 !

Salo · « **Reply #83 on:** 12/10/2013 06:02 am »

http://player.rutv.ru/index/iframe/video_id/688300/sid/vh/?acc_video_id=688300

Salo · « **Reply #84 on:** 12/10/2013 06:44 am »

http://www.alcantaracyclonespace.com/for-customers/project-status

Quote

Project Status

Currently, about 78% of the Launch Vehicle have been manufactured and 73% tested. About 48% of the Launch Site civil construction have been completed. Most of Ground Support Equipment has been contracted, and some has already been received in Alcantara. The first Cyclone-4 launch is estimated to take place in 2015.
Below are some pictures showing the current situation:

Salo · « **Reply #85 on:** 12/10/2013 06:46 am »

Launch Site:

Salo · « **Reply #86 on:** 12/10/2013 06:48 am »

Ground Support Equipment:

Salo · « **Reply #87 on:** 12/10/2013 06:50 am »

Ground Support Equipment (continue):

Prober · « **Reply #88 on:** 12/10/2013 02:06 pm »

Solo thx for posting pics of the impressive factory in Ukraine.

If you have more please post.

Danderman · « **Reply #89 on:** 12/10/2013 02:15 pm »

I should note that this is a photo of the small assembly room at Yushzmash. The larger assembly hall contains completed Zenit and Tsiklons.

Salo · « **Reply #90 on:** 12/10/2013 08:27 pm »

Quote from: Prober on 12/10/2013 02:06 pm

Solo thx for posting pics of the impressive factory in Ukraine.

If you have more please post.

Salo · « **Reply #91 on:** 12/10/2013 08:33 pm »

http://www.alcantaracyclonespace.com/media-kit/photos?start=20

Salo · « **Reply #92 on:** 12/10/2013 08:35 pm »

http://www.alcantaracyclonespace.com/phocadownload/cyclone4_users_guide.pdf

Danderman · « **Reply #93 on:** 01/24/2014 03:19 am »

http://www.gaussteam.com/activities-services-and-products/launch-services/cyclone-iv/

The University of Rome is taking orders for smallsat launches on Cyclone IV, starting in 2015.

Fuji · « **Reply #94 on:** 01/29/2014 01:49 am »

QB50 CubeSat Launch Contract Signed
http://amsat-uk.org/2014/01/28/qb50-cubesat-launch-contract-signed/

Quote

The 7th QB50 workshop opened on Tuesday with the announcement that on Monday, January 27, 2014, the Von Karman Institute of Belgium signed the launch contract with Alcantara Cyclone Space for the launch of the QB50 constellation of 50 2U CubeSats into a 350 km low earth orbit for scientific research. The QB50 project is funded via the FP7 programme of the European Commission.

Quote

The precise QB50 launch date is still to be confirmed but the launch window is defined as being between December 2015 and November 2016.

albatros68 · « **Reply #95 on:** 03/03/2014 10:52 am »

In the wake of recent events in Ukraine, ¿this project schedule will still be kept?

Skyrocket · « **Reply #96 on:** 03/03/2014 11:27 am »

Too early to assess, what impact the events in the Ukraine will have - not only for this project.

baldusi · « **Reply #97 on:** 03/03/2014 02:46 pm »

Also the events on Brazil. The Worl Cup mismanagement has them making cuts everywhere.

Satori · « **Reply #98 on:** 04/22/2014 11:23 am »

The current events in Ukraine have not impacted the Cyclone-4 Project development. Currently, the Launch Vehicle development is progressing as scheduled, and it will be ready for delivery to Alcantara in the second half of 2015. A significant portion of the Launch Site civil construction activities has been completed as well. Most of Ground Support Equipment has been contracted, and some has already been received in Alcantara.

http://alcantaracyclonespace.com/en/for-customers/project-status

Prober · « **Reply #99 on:** 04/22/2014 05:59 pm »

Quote from: Satori on 04/22/2014 11:23 am

The current events in Ukraine have not impacted the Cyclone-4 Project development. Currently, the Launch Vehicle development is progressing as scheduled, and it will be ready for delivery to Alcantara in the second half of 2015. A significant portion of the Launch Site civil construction activities has been completed as well. Most of Ground Support Equipment has been contracted, and some has already been received in Alcantara.

http://alcantaracyclonespace.com/en/for-customers/project-status

Great work those Yushzmash people do. Any news from the "funding end" for this project?

Satori I still can't understand the choice of introducing the toxic chemicals into the country when Myak could have been done. Havn't run any numbers; but for the payloads they wish to launch couldn't this project compete with Vega, and Soyuz?
http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=31969.0

Just don't see the toxic tradeoff being worth it.

Prober · « **Reply #100 on:** 04/22/2014 06:39 pm »

Quote from: Skyrocket on 03/03/2014 11:27 am

Too early to assess, what impact the events in the Ukraine will have - not only for this project.

Any idea who owns the site if things go bad in Ukraine? Can Russia claim ownership in the project?

baldusi · « **Reply #101 on:** 04/22/2014 07:57 pm »

Quote from: Prober on 04/22/2014 06:39 pm

Quote from: Skyrocket on 03/03/2014 11:27 am
Too early to assess, what impact the events in the Ukraine will have - not only for this project.

Any idea who owns the site if things go bad in Ukraine? Can Russia claim ownership in the project?

Alcantara belongs to the Brazillian Government (Air Force, I believe). The Yuhzove design bureau, I simply don't know.

Prober · « **Reply #102 on:** 04/22/2014 09:20 pm »

Quote from: baldusi on 04/22/2014 07:57 pm

Quote from: Prober on 04/22/2014 06:39 pm
Quote from: Skyrocket on 03/03/2014 11:27 am
Too early to assess, what impact the events in the Ukraine will have - not only for this project.

Any idea who owns the site if things go bad in Ukraine? Can Russia claim ownership in the project?
Alcantara belongs to the Brazillian Government (Air Force, I believe). The Yuhzove design bureau, I simply don't know.

you must admit its an interesting question. If Russia claims ownership in some distant weird future they could be launching Zenits out of that location

SoheilEsy · « **Reply #103 on:** 05/04/2014 06:17 am »

We don't have crystal balls !

As I know , Iran benefited so much from the conflict ...

Don't know about the Brazil ...

Brazil chosed a bad choice !

I am going to tell more in the future ...

osiossim · « **Reply #104 on:** 06/06/2014 11:35 am »

Opss.....

http://www.aereo.jor.br/2014/03/10/crise-na-ucrania-ameaca-parceria-de-r-1-bilhao-com-o-brasil-para-lancamento-de-foguetes/

Danderman · « **Reply #105 on:** 06/29/2014 11:33 pm »

Apparently, first launch is two years away, and has been for some 10 years.

Salo · « **Reply #106 on:** 07/01/2014 09:05 am »

http://www.googlelunarxprize.org/teams/spacemeta/blog/spacemeta-and-acs-alcantara-cyclone-systems-signed-mou-lunar-micro-explore

osiossim · « **Reply #107 on:** 07/09/2014 10:59 am »

Quote from: Danderman on 06/29/2014 11:33 pm

Apparently, first launch is two years away, and has been for some 10 years.

Amazing, I was in contact with the company for a launch opportunity in 2010-2011. It is 2014 and there is still no light...

fregate · « **Reply #108 on:** 07/10/2014 01:41 am »

Quote from: Danderman on 06/29/2014 11:33 pm

Apparently, first launch is two years away, and has been for some 10 years.

After Angara made it maiden flight and completion of the similar project in Kourou there is a hope.
All depends on political stability in Ukraine.

Danderman · « **Reply #109 on:** 12/17/2014 01:23 am »

Quote from: osiossim on 07/09/2014 10:59 am

Quote from: Danderman on 06/29/2014 11:33 pm
Apparently, first launch is two years away, and has been for some 10 years.

Amazing, I was in contact with the company for a launch opportunity in 2010-2011. It is 2014 and there is still no light...

I was in Brazilia in 2003 looking at launch opportunities, which then were scheduled for 2006 or so.

Come to think of it, I was in Dneprpetrovsk in 2002, and had the first draft of the user guide for Cyclone 4 in my hands.

Galactic Penguin SST · « **Reply #110 on:** 01/24/2015 06:50 am »

Somehow I just don't see this project ending up flying - which would be a shame to the interesting QB50 cubesat project, which somehow hopped on board instead of flying with the Chinese as originally planned.

Any news about how much remains to be done in order for even pad fit tests to be done?

russianhalo117 · « **Reply #111 on:** 01/28/2015 07:38 pm »

Quote from: Galactic Penguin SST on 01/24/2015 06:50 am

Somehow I just don't see this project ending up flying - which would be a shame to the interesting QB50 cubesat project, which somehow hopped on board instead of flying with the Chinese as originally planned.

Any news about how much remains to be done in order for even pad fit tests to be done?

I dont have anything official in half a year except that all of the Launcher GSE including TEL's had completed manufacture and were moved to storage in Ukraine do the need for the Launch site to reach completion to allow for GSE installs. Everything completely halted when Ukraine had to change and move its focus and resources back home to deal with its ongoing Ukraine crisis and the geopolitical tensions. Russia and Russia loyal CIS states imposed sanctions/restrictions Ukrainian manufacturers in the areas of defence, space, air, agriculture and mining.

Salo who lives in Odessa can give a firmer picture for you if he wishes to talk about it. He wont really talk about the ongoing situation there in my past conversations with him.

Salo · « **Reply #112 on:** 02/16/2015 08:45 pm »

Rocket project in partnership with Ukraine heads to failure:
http://www.aereo.jor.br/2015/02/15/projeto-de-foguete-em-parceria-com-ucrania-ruma-ao-fracasso/

Soheil · « **Reply #113 on:** 02/17/2015 05:51 am »

Quote from: Salo on 02/16/2015 08:45 pm

Rocket project in partnership with Ukraine heads to failure:
http://www.aereo.jor.br/2015/02/15/projeto-de-foguete-em-parceria-com-ucrania-ruma-ao-fracasso/

As expected ...

Prober · « **Reply #114 on:** 02/23/2015 11:39 pm »

I've noticed a lot of the pics in this thread from the early days are lost...maybe for "historical" reasons we can find and install them on NSF?

Danderman · « **Reply #115 on:** 02/24/2015 03:40 am »

With the Brazilian economy crashing, and Ukraine in disarray, things are definitely not looking good for this project.

I guess the upside is that there is a potential equatorial spaceport looking for a rocket.

Someone with $$ could probably buy Zenits and launch large comsats in the 2 stage variant from Alcantara. The verniers on the second stage almost make up a third stage, so really, really large comsats could be launched to quasi GTO even without a Blok-DM.

Salo · « **Reply #116 on:** 03/12/2015 11:16 am »

Brasilia prepares break the agreement with Ukraine on release of the Cyclone-4:
http://www.aereo.jor.br/2015/03/10/brasilia-prepara-rompimento-do-acordo-com-a-ucrania-sobre-lancamento-do-cyclone-4/

gospacex · « **Reply #117 on:** 03/12/2015 11:35 am »

The critical problem for this project now is probably that even though Ukraine supplies most of the rocket components and GSE, the 1st stage engine is manufactured in Russia.

Russians will not cooperate with Ukrainians.

Ukraine doesn't have and can't develop a replacement engine.

pippin · « **Reply #118 on:** 03/12/2015 12:59 pm »

Quote from: gospacex on 03/12/2015 11:35 am

Russians will not cooperate with Ukrainians.

Source?
The propaganda and current animosities aside they do in fact still cooperate a lot. Actually Russia is still by far Ukraine's most important trade partner and Ukraine still ranks high in Russia's list there, too.

Salo · « **Reply #119 on:** 03/13/2015 05:12 am »

In 1970s the 1st stage engine manufactured in Dnepropetrovsk. There are around seven one's on old Cyclone-2 bouth from Russia.

osiossim · « **Reply #120 on:** 03/13/2015 01:39 pm »

Brazil is the top country who is negatively effected from the over appreciation of USD. Ukraine is almost economically collapsed. Continuation of Alcantara Cyclone Space should be just like a dream now.

Several years ago when we were invited to QB50, we have just smiled and said thanks, by knowing Shtil launch vehicle will never fly again, after the catastrophic experience of South African Space Agency. At that time I have never understood and learnt the reason behind Von Karman to go Makayev for the launch of QB50.

Many years after, I was told that Cyclone-4 will replace Shtil for the launch of QB50 satellites, and everbody in EU had high hopes and good feelings regarding the launch campaign this time...

I had the similar feeling that I have had many years ago, that Cyclone-4 will hardly make the success, due to the reasons that I typed above and before.

The technology that is supposed to be demonstrated within QB50 is going to be outdated, due to this continuous launch problems. But obviously, it is an advantage for some cubesat developers, as they also hardly make the schedule...

At the end, I really wonder how EU and Von Karman cannot manage to arrange a good and reliable launch campaign...

chapi · « **Reply #121 on:** 03/13/2015 07:15 pm »

Quote from: osiossim on 03/13/2015 01:39 pm

At the end, I really wonder how EU and Von Karman cannot manage to arrange a good and reliable launch campaign...

Eventually they will discover that they have domestic European space launch systems, that they are supporting and subsidizing, and that happens to launch every month or so. EC is definitely weird, if not insane.

bulkmail · « **Reply #122 on:** 03/16/2015 04:59 pm »

Quote from: pippin on 03/12/2015 12:59 pm

The propaganda and current animosities aside they do in fact still cooperate a lot. Actually Russia is still by far Ukraine's most important trade partner and Ukraine still ranks high in Russia's list there, too.

The common myth of Russian importance to post-Soviet states. Ukraine's most important trade partner is the EU. Russia is the second. http://stat.wto.org/CountryProfile/WSDBCountryPFView.aspx?Language=E&Country=UA

On the other side - Ukraine is 4th source for imports in Russia and has negligable place in Russian exports. EU is again the most important trade partner. http://stat.wto.org/CountryProfile/WSDBCountryPFView.aspx?Language=E&Country=RU

Now, back to space - if Russian engines do not go to Yuzhnoe anymore, what options does Ukraine have? Can they evolve some of the Ukraininan RD-8xx engines? Do they need to keep the same fuel? Can they use non-Soviet engines (without cost-prohibitive redesign)?

Danderman · « **Reply #123 on:** 03/27/2015 09:22 pm »

Concerning the last question, Cyclone 4 was to use Russian designed engines built in Ukraine. The only Russian made engines used by Yuzhmash is RD-171.

russianhalo117 · « **Reply #124 on:** 03/27/2015 09:52 pm »

LREs employed on Cyclone-4 are:
1-Stage: RD-261 (3x)
2-Stage: RD-262 (1x)
3-Stage: RD-861K (1x)
Optional Upper Stage: DU-802 (1x) original version developed jointly with Russia for Dnepr upgrade project.

pippin · « **Reply #125 on:** 03/27/2015 10:09 pm »

Quote from: bulkmail on 03/16/2015 04:59 pm

Quote from: pippin on 03/12/2015 12:59 pm
The propaganda and current animosities aside they do in fact still cooperate a lot. Actually Russia is still by far Ukraine's most important trade partner and Ukraine still ranks high in Russia's list there, too.

The common myth of Russian importance to post-Soviet states. Ukraine's most important trade partner is the EU. Russia is the second. http://stat.wto.org/CountryProfile/WSDBCountryPFView.aspx?Language=E&Country=UA

The EU is 28 countries. It's a bit like saying "the biggest trade partner is Asia".
The biggest one of the EU countries in terms of trade with Ukraine is Poland (for exports) or Germany (for imports).

On the export side Poland ranks even behind Egypt and Turkey and its volume is less than 1/6 of the trade volume Ukraine has with Russia.

On the imports side Germany still ranks behind China and the volume is about 1/4 the volume Ukraine imports from Russia.

I'd still call that pretty dominant.

http://globaledge.msu.edu/countries/ukraine/tradestats

bulkmail · « **Reply #126 on:** 04/06/2015 07:15 pm »

Quote from: pippin on 03/27/2015 10:09 pm

Quote from: bulkmail on 03/16/2015 04:59 pm
Quote from: pippin on 03/12/2015 12:59 pm
The propaganda and current animosities aside they do in fact still cooperate a lot. Actually Russia is still by far Ukraine's most important trade partner and Ukraine still ranks high in Russia's list there, too.

The common myth of Russian importance to post-Soviet states. Ukraine's most important trade partner is the EU. Russia is the second. http://stat.wto.org/CountryProfile/WSDBCountryPFView.aspx?Language=E&Country=UA

The EU is 28 countries. It's a bit like saying "the biggest trade partner is Asia".

No, the EU it's not like Asia... Asia doesn't have integrated foreign trade policy, customs union and integrated internal market with free movement of workers. Not that this is relevant, but Asia doesn't even have a common space agency (ESA is not exactly EU agency, like many other European institutional intricacies, but close enough). Also, EU is not an European NAFTA. Splitting individual EU member states when speaking about foreign trade is like splitting individual US states. Yes, the EU is not US of Europe, there is no single telephone to call, etc., but in the field of foreign trade - it is not less integrated than the USA.

Danderman · « **Reply #127 on:** 04/06/2015 07:38 pm »

Nothing new on the Alcantara Space web site in 2015.

pippin · « **Reply #128 on:** 04/07/2015 01:31 pm »

Quote from: bulkmail on 04/06/2015 07:15 pm

No, the EU it's not like Asia... Asia doesn't have integrated foreign trade policy, customs union and integrated internal market with free movement of workers.

OK, the Asia comparison was a bit exaggerated (I said "a bit like"), however, your implication that the UE for Ukraine is like a single trade partner is simply wrong and that was my point.

If you go to the EU as a US company everything you are stating is pretty true: you open up shop in the country that fits you best and then you sell to pretty much everywhere (languages aside) from there.

But that model only applies to a very small part of the business between Ukraine and "the EU". The biggest part is with Poland, a country that has strong ethnic ties to the western Ukraine much as eastern Ukraine has with Russia. Plus there are still traditional trade channels from Warsaw Pact times to Eastern European EU countries.
Then there is Germany where a lot of people from Ukraine migrated to, especially here in Berlin. They are who are driving trade over here.

Trade to the EU in general and as a unified entity only makes a small part of Ukrainian foreign trade and it pales in comparison to the trade to Russia.
Just go to, say, France or Spain or Italy and try to find any Ukrainian products there. Good luck. Berlin: sure. Poland: sure. London: probably. But the rest of the EU: really not a lot.

No, Russia is still very, very important in terms of trade volume for Ukraine and that's unlikely to change soon unless the current situation really escalates, an unlikely outcome given all the commercial interests involved on both sides.

bulkmail · « **Reply #129 on:** 04/08/2015 04:54 pm »

Quote from: pippin on 04/07/2015 01:31 pm

Trade to the EU in general and as a unified entity only makes a small part of Ukrainian foreign trade and it pales in comparison to the trade to Russia.
Just go to, say, France or Spain or Italy and try to find any Ukrainian products there. Good luck. Berlin: sure. Poland: sure. London: probably. But the rest of the EU: really not a lot.

I don't argue that Russia is important trade partner for Ukraine - it's the second most important, yes! What I said is that Russia isn't the MOST important trade partner for Ukraine, because that's the EU...

I agree that trade with some EU members is much more significant than with others (because of reasons you described, etc.) - but my point is that in the field of trade the EU is a common entity, with common policy decided at the "federal" / "supranational" level - not on the level of individual member states. E.g. Poland or Germany can not decide to lift customs taxes on Ukrainian imports, that's not up to them at all - that's up to the common EU institutions to decide... Likewise California can not take decisions on US custom duties applied to Ukrainian imports - regardless of California's share in US-Ukraine trade.

russianhalo117 · « **Reply #130 on:** 04/08/2015 10:52 pm »

Brazilian Space news (Google Translate used below on video description and title:
Projeto Espacial da ACS Está Abandonado no Maranhão (ACS Space project is abandoned in Maranhão)

Reportagem exibida dia 08/04/2015 do jornal "Bom Dia Brasil" da Rede Globo, sobre as obras do projeto do sítio de lançamento do foguete Cyclone-4 da Alcântara Cyclone Space (ACS). As obras que já custaram R$ 1 bilhão ao Brasil e a Ucrânia estão completamente abandonadas numa área militar cedida pela Aeronáutica para o projeto. O projeto do "Cyclone 4" é uma parceria entre os governos do Brasil e da Ucrânia que previa o lançamento e a comercialização de satélites, a partir da base de Alcântara, no maranhão.
------
Report displayed day 04/08/2015 newspaper "Good Morning Brazil" Rede Globo, on the works of the launch site of the project Cyclone-4 rocket Alcantara Cyclone Space (ACS). The works that have cost US $ 1 billion to Brazil and Ukraine are completely abandoned in a military area ceded by the Air Force for the project. The project "Cyclone 4" is a partnership between the governments of Brazil and Ukraine that calls for the development and commercialization of satellites from the Alcantara base, in Maranhão.

DanseMacabre · « **Reply #131 on:** 04/09/2015 04:58 pm »

Minor site update: http://www.alcantaracyclonespace.com/en/news/285-launch-site-documentation-delivered-to-acs

russianhalo117 · « **Reply #132 on:** 04/09/2015 10:53 pm »

Quote from: russianhalo117 on 04/08/2015 10:52 pm

Brazilian Space news (Google Translate used below on video description and title:
Projeto Espacial da ACS Está Abandonado no Maranhão (ACS Space project is abandoned in Maranhão)

Reportagem exibida dia 08/04/2015 do jornal "Bom Dia Brasil" da Rede Globo, sobre as obras do projeto do sítio de lançamento do foguete Cyclone-4 da Alcântara Cyclone Space (ACS). As obras que já custaram R$ 1 bilhão ao Brasil e a Ucrânia estão completamente abandonadas numa área militar cedida pela Aeronáutica para o projeto. O projeto do "Cyclone 4" é uma parceria entre os governos do Brasil e da Ucrânia que previa o lançamento e a comercialização de satélites, a partir da base de Alcântara, no maranhão.
------
Report displayed day 04/08/2015 newspaper "Good Morning Brazil" Rede Globo, on the works of the launch site of the project Cyclone-4 rocket Alcantara Cyclone Space (ACS). The works that have cost US $ 1 billion to Brazil and Ukraine are completely abandoned in a military area ceded by the Air Force for the project. The project "Cyclone 4" is a partnership between the governments of Brazil and Ukraine that calls for the development and commercialization of satellites from the Alcantara base, in Maranhão.

Translation by Satori:

Quote from: Satori on 04/09/2015 09:33 pm

Sorry for the late reply....

The video says that the strategic space project is abandoned in the middle of Maranhão. The money spent by Brazil and the Ukraine is going down the drain.

The site sits in the middle of a open space, a military area that was given for the project, and everything and all the works are stopped.

The reporter on the field then says that it is obvious that everything is abandoned in place. The equipment is now rusty and all the material is abandoned long ago.

The Tsyklon-4 is a joint project between the Ukraine and Brazil that was signed in 2003. The program aimed for the launch of commercial services from Alcantara Space Base. Ukraine doe not have space launch centers, so there was interest in an agreement with Brazil to launch the rockets developed in Europe and there were going to be shopped by plane to Brazil.

A space company, Alcantara Cyclone Space, was created to take care of every logistic related to the project. The first launch would take place in 2015.

The Brazilian Science and Technology Ministru didn't to comment, but in a note said that the project demanded more investment that changed the initial cost schedule. Also, the political crises in the Ukraine led to a lack of communication between the two nations.

The Ukrainian foreign Minister will visit the launch site until the end of the first semester 2015, to debate the news project costs and new schedule.

The Brazilian Government has a commission that is evaluating the restart of the work at the launch site or its definitive cancelation.

Olaf · « **Reply #133 on:** 04/10/2015 06:31 am »

Brazil Abandons Joint Satellite Launch System Project With Ukraine
http://sputniknews.com/business/20150409/1020687150.html

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #134 on:** 04/12/2015 01:46 am »

Thanks Olaf. That's not good news, although I guess the way the project had been going, not unexpected. The QB50 website is still showing Tsyklon 4 as the launch vehicle though.

https://www.qb50.eu/index.php/project-description-obj/launch-vehicle

russianhalo117 · « **Reply #135 on:** 04/12/2015 01:55 am »

Quote from: Steven Pietrobon on 04/12/2015 01:46 am

Thanks Olaf. That's not good news, although I guess the way the project had been going, not unexpected. The QB50 website is still showing Tsyklon 4 as the launch vehicle though.

https://www.qb50.eu/index.php/project-description-obj/launch-vehicle

it will probably not be updated for a few more years.

Skyrocket · « **Reply #136 on:** 04/12/2015 09:34 am »

The QB50 team is well aware, that the Tsiklon-4 will not be available. They told me, that they are in final negotiations with another launch provider and would therefore not disclosing the details. According to the contact at QB50, the website will be updated after announcing the launch vehicle, including the final list of qb50 satellites.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #137 on:** 04/13/2015 06:48 am »

I've heard that it will be Soyuz from Kourou.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/133294990019598/

osiossim · « **Reply #138 on:** 04/13/2015 11:15 am »

Quote from: Skyrocket on 04/12/2015 09:34 am

The QB50 team is well aware, that the Tsiklon-4 will not be available. They told me, that they are in final negotiations with another launch provider and would therefore not disclosing the details. According to the contact at QB50, the website will be updated after announcing the launch vehicle, including the final list of qb50 satellites.

First they signed the launch agreement with Makeev for Shtil, then with ACS for Cyclone-4. Now, with another launch provider...God knows how long it will take more to qualify ISIS (Innovative Solutions In Space) made launch platform on any other launch vehicle, before the LRR.

Precursor platform part design;

Final platform design;

Even if they have signed the agreement with Arianespace for Soyuz launch, it is not that easy to install final platform on Soyuz launch vehicle. Due to the enormous size and strange structure, launching the Soyuz with the QB50 platform only, will be far more expensive than the project budget can handle. Thus, I belive they shall find much much smaller and less expensive launch vehicle, that is capable of handling such structure on board.

It seems like QB50 becomes nightmare for EU, EC and participants. The technology is getting older, the satellite batteries are finishing their lifetime on the ground, the employement cost for the participants is getting higher and higher everyday, due to the endless schedule...

Skyrocket · « **Reply #139 on:** 04/13/2015 03:36 pm »

Quote from: osiossim on 04/13/2015 11:15 am

Even if they have signed the agreement with Arianespace for Soyuz launch, it is not that easy to install final platform on the launch vehicle. Due to the enormous size, launching Soyuz with the QB50 platform only, will be far more expensive than the project budget can handle. Thus, I belive it shall be much much smaller and less expensive launch vehicle, that is capable of handling such structure on board.

I don't think, it will be on a dedicated Soyuz launcher - this would be overkill . I guess, QB50 will be a secondary payload. The 13 quadpacks should fit on an ASAP-S secondary launch structure. The Sentinel-1B mission could have enough spare capacity.

russianhalo117 · « **Reply #140 on:** 04/13/2015 07:17 pm »

Quote from: Skyrocket on 04/13/2015 03:36 pm

Quote from: osiossim on 04/13/2015 11:15 am
Even if they have signed the agreement with Arianespace for Soyuz launch, it is not that easy to install final platform on the launch vehicle. Due to the enormous size, launching Soyuz with the QB50 platform only, will be far more expensive than the project budget can handle. Thus, I believe it shall be much much smaller and less expensive launch vehicle, that is capable of handling such structure on board.

I don't think, it will be on a dedicated Soyuz launcher - this would be overkill . I guess, QB50 will be a secondary payload. The 13 quadpacks should fit on an ASAP-S secondary launch structure. The Sentinel-1B mission could have enough spare capacity.

Ive heard that too. Read online that we could have an announcement at the earliest during the 15 April Arianespace Webcast.

osiossim · « **Reply #141 on:** 04/15/2015 11:23 am »

VonKarman said;

"Consequently, the contract was signed at the von Karman Institute the 27th of January 2014, just one day ahead of the 7th QB50 Workshop. It sets the main launch parameters such as the orbit being ~98 degrees and a 380 km altitude, and also the targeted launch date January 2016."

@ https://www.qb50.eu/index.php/project-description-obj/launch-vehicle

While Sentinel-1 is SAR satellite and will be launched to 690 km altitude;

"Sentinel-1B is a C-band radar observation satellite, using SAR (synthetic aperture radar) technology. It will be placed in a Sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of about 690 km..."

@ http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2014/7-17-2014-Sentinel-1B.asp

Can someone update us, if Soyuz can release different playloads on different altitudes, like Dnepr? I don't think QB50 consortium will be ready to release the satellites at 690 km, while the satellite design is according to 380 km, and life time is lasting only couple of days after launch...

Galactic Penguin SST · « **Reply #142 on:** 04/15/2015 11:37 am »

Quote from: osiossim on 04/15/2015 11:23 am

VonKarman said;

"Consequently, the contract was signed at the von Karman Institute the 27th of January 2014, just one day ahead of the 7th QB50 Workshop. It sets the main launch parameters such as the orbit being ~98 degrees and a 380 km altitude, and also the targeted launch date January 2016."

@ https://www.qb50.eu/index.php/project-description-obj/launch-vehicle

While Sentinel-1 is SAR satellite and will be launched to 690 km altitude;

"Sentinel-1B is a C-band radar observation satellite, using SAR (synthetic aperture radar) technology. It will be placed in a Sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of about 690 km..."

@ http://www.arianespace.com/news-press-release/2014/7-17-2014-Sentinel-1B.asp

Can someone update us, if Soyuz can release different playloads on different altitudes, like Dnepr? I don't think QB50 consortium will be ready to release the satellites at 690 km, while the satellite design is according to 380 km.

Fregat can easily go down to that orbit after deploying the main payload.

osiossim · « **Reply #143 on:** 04/15/2015 11:46 am »

The rough Soyuz launch service cost from CSG is about 86 M € per SSO launch. If ESA does not subsidize QB50, VonKarman can hardly bear the cost of launch with Soyuz.

Skyrocket · « **Reply #144 on:** 04/15/2015 11:49 am »

Quote from: osiossim on 04/15/2015 11:46 am

The rough Soyuz launch service cost from CSG is about 86 M € per launch. If ESA does not subsidize QB50, VonKarman can hardly bear the cost of launch with Soyuz.

They do not need a dedicated Soyuz, they will fly as a secondary payload.

osiossim · « **Reply #145 on:** 04/15/2015 11:52 am »

Quote from: Skyrocket on 04/15/2015 11:49 am

Quote from: osiossim on 04/15/2015 11:46 am
The rough Soyuz launch service cost from CSG is about 86 M € per launch. If ESA does not subsidize QB50, VonKarman can hardly bear the cost of launch with Soyuz.

They do not need a dedicated Soyuz, they will fly as a secondary payload.

That's for sure. But even secondary passenger seat cost would be enormous for VK's 50 satellites.

Danderman · « **Reply #146 on:** 04/15/2015 02:40 pm »

For an ESA sponsored Soyuz launch, the cost of a secondary payload with a mass of less than 100 kg might be nominal - the CubeSATs might be used to balance the payload by arrangement on the launch adapter, and the vehicle might have sufficient performance that the the primary payload needs ballast to maintain launch vehicle drop zones.

Olaf · « **Reply #147 on:** 04/16/2015 04:37 pm »

More news
http://spacenews.com/brazil-pulling-out-of-ukrainian-launcher-project/

Soheil · « **Reply #148 on:** 04/19/2015 11:24 am »

ChamberPressure · « **Reply #149 on:** 09/08/2016 04:04 am »

Here's a week old update from Yuzhnoye itself: http://www.yuzhnoye.com/en/press-center/pressrelises/pressrelis-copy_39.html

Looks like they're considering launching from North America, partnering up with whoever is willing to take on the construction costs for the launch site.

Sam Ho · « **Reply #150 on:** 09/08/2016 04:45 am »

Quote from: ChamberPressure on 09/08/2016 04:04 am

Here's a week old update from Yuzhnoye itself: http://www.yuzhnoye.com/en/press-center/pressrelises/pressrelis-copy_39.html

Looks like they're considering launching from North America, partnering up with whoever is willing to take on the construction costs for the launch site.

It's being discussed in the thread below.

Quote from: Chris Bergin on 09/01/2016 10:17 pm

Interesting presser just turned up from Yuzhnoye!

Danderman · « **Reply #151 on:** 09/26/2017 05:28 am »

The recent release from Yuzhnoye admits that they had problems getting parts for Cyclone 4 from Russia for many years.