Soyuz (rocket)
The Soyuz (Russian: Союз, meaning "Union") rocket is a family of expendable launch systems developed by the Soviet Union and later Russia, derived from the R-7 Semyorka intercontinental ballistic missile. The Soyuz is one of the most frequently used and reliable launch vehicles in the history of spaceflight.
Overview
The Soyuz rocket family has been in service since the late 1960s and has undergone numerous upgrades and modifications. It is used for a wide range of missions, including launching crewed Soyuz spacecraft to the International Space Station (ISS), uncrewed Progress cargo spacecraft, and various satellites into different orbits. The rocket's longevity and reliability have made it a workhorse of the Russian space program and a popular choice for international customers.Design
The basic Soyuz design consists of four liquid-fueled boosters arranged around a central core stage. A third stage sits atop the core. The boosters and core stage use kerosene (RP-1) and liquid oxygen (LOX) as propellants. The third stage typically uses the same propellants, though variants exist with different upper stages for specific mission requirements. The rocket's design is known for its simplicity and robust construction.Variants
Over the years, several variants of the Soyuz rocket have been developed, each tailored for specific payload capacities and mission profiles. Key variants include:- Soyuz-U: A widely used version that served as the primary launch vehicle for many years.
- Soyuz-FG: A more advanced version that was used to launch crewed Soyuz spacecraft to the ISS until its retirement.
- Soyuz-2: A modernised version with digital flight control and improved engines, offering increased performance and flexibility. The Soyuz-2 comes in several sub-variants (Soyuz-2.1a, Soyuz-2.1b, Soyuz-2.1v), each with different upper stage configurations and capabilities.
Applications
The Soyuz rocket is used to launch a diverse range of payloads, including:- Crewed Spaceflight: Launching Soyuz spacecraft carrying cosmonauts and astronauts to the ISS.
- Cargo Delivery: Launching Progress cargo spacecraft to resupply the ISS.
- Satellite Launches: Deploying various types of satellites for communications, Earth observation, scientific research, and military purposes.