On the night of November 30, the Soyuz launch vehicle took off from the Vostochny cosmodrome, after which the Fregat upper stage launched the Condor-FKA radar satellite number 2 into the target orbit.
As explained in the Roscosmos press service, satellites of this type are designed for observation of the Earth’s surface in any weather conditions and 24 hours a day. They take more than 100 photographs a day.
“The second radar satellite “Condor-FKA” is in orbit! The launch vehicles functioned normally.” — reported the state corporation.
From the published information it follows that the Soyuz-2.1a launch vehicle with the Fregat upper stage and the Condor-FKA satellite number 2 were launched at 00:50 Moscow time from the Vostochny cosmodrome.
One of the satellite’s key tasks is to photograph the Northern Sea Route. The data obtained will help plot ship routes, especially during the polar night.
The launch of the second satellite will allow it to operate effectively in interferometer mode, that is, photographing the same object during sequential flights of one and then another device.
As reported EADaily the first Condor-FKA satellite was launched in 2023. It is used to monitor and forecast emergency situations. The orbital vehicle can perform not only civil functions, but also military missions.
