Soyuz Successfully Launches Cluster Simulator

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Soyuz Successfully Launches Cluster Simulator

A Soyuz U/Fregat launched a mock-up satellite simulator, called Dumsat, at 10:28 a.m. PST (18:28 UTC) March 20, from launch pad 6 of Area 31 at Baikonur Cosmodrome. The demonstration flight placed a 2,270 kg (5003 lbm) mass simulator, representing a pair of Cluster satellites, into an initial low circular orbit. The Fregat upper stage engine then fired again, sending the payload into the highly elliptical orbit planned for four Cluster II satellites to be launched for the European Space Agency (ESA) in June and July of this year. The orbit, ranging from a perigee of 242 km (150 miles) and apogee of 18,000 km (11,185 miles), is inclined at 64.86°.

Dumsat was developed by Aerospatiale Matra Lanceurs and NPO Lavotchkine, and was equipped with sensors to allow the characterization of the mechanical, thermal and acoustical environment of the satellites. The objective of the flight was to confirm the re-ignition and orbital maneuvering capabilities of the Fregat upper stage, as well as to validate the mission profile for the launch of ESA’s Cluster II satellites.

More Information:

Soyuz Data Sheet

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March 21, 2000

Andrews Space & Technology