Space industry specialists finish preparang Soyuz-2.1b booster launch with Fregat upper stage, Meteor-M satellite and 6 smaller space devices for the launch .
The specialists installed all smaller space devices and meteor-M on the upper stage.
Today the will conduct final electrical testing and install nose fairing.
At the same time Yuzhny Space centre specialists started preparing equipment of #31 launchpad for the future launch scheduled for july 8, 19.58, Moscow time.
Fregat upper stage was manufactured by Lavochkin Research and Production Association and provides for fulfillment of all traditional tasks on space device orbiting. The process of orbiting is carried out in autonomous mode, without any control from the Earth since Fregat control system solves navigational tasks using GLONASS system. Fregat-SB booster with increased fuel tanks and extra fuel tanks block was developed later on the basis of Fregat upper stage.
At the present time 43 Fregat boosters have been launched; all launches were successful.
Soyuz-2.1b booster was designed by TsSKB-Progress State Research and Production Space Centre. Soyuz-2.1b is a modification of Soyuz-2 booster. In comparison with “1a” variant its thruster has better power properties of the 3rd stage. Soyuz-2.1b booster has a higher injection accuracy, stabilization and controllability, and increased carrying capacity.
