Kosmos 2403: A Key Component of the GLONASS Navigation System
The Kosmos 2403 is a specialized military satellite developed by the Russian Space Forces to enhance global positioning capabilities. As part of the GLONASS (Global Navigation Satellite System), it served as a critical node in providing precise timing and navigation data across the globe.
This spacecraft, identified as Uragan No. 795, was part of a strategic deployment to ensure the reliability and coverage of the Russian navigation constellation. It was launched as part of a trio of satellites, alongside Kosmos 2402 and Kosmos 2404, to strengthen the network's orbital infrastructure.
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Launch and Deployment
Kosmos 2403 was launched on December 10, 2003, at 17:42 UTC. The mission utilized the Proton-K carrier rocket, equipped with a Briz-M (Blok DM) upper stage, to propel the satellites into space. The launch took place at Site 81/24 of the Baikonur Cosmodrome, located in Kazakhstan.
Upon successful deployment, the satellite was placed into Medium Earth orbit (MEO), a region of space typically used by navigation satellites because it allows for a wide coverage area while maintaining a stable orbital period.
Technical Specifications and Identification
The spacecraft is a member of the Uragan family, manufactured by Reshetnev ISS. To ensure precise tracking by international space agencies, it was assigned several unique identifiers. The International Designator is 2003-056C, and the United States Space Command assigned it the Satellite Catalog Number 28114.
In terms of orbital positioning, Kosmos 2403 was assigned to the first orbital plane and occupied orbital slot 4. This specific placement is essential for the GLONASS system to provide overlapping coverage, ensuring that users on the ground can receive signals from multiple satellites simultaneously for accurate triangulation.
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Key Facts
- Operator: Russian Space Forces
- Spacecraft Type: Uragan (GC 795)
- Launch Date: December 10, 2003
- Launch Vehicle: Proton-K / Briz-M
- Orbit Type: Medium Earth orbit (MEO)
- COSPAR ID: 2003-056C
- SATCAT Number: 28114
Mission Summary Table
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Reshetnev ISS |
| Mission Type | Navigation |
| Launch Site | Baikonur, Site 81/24 |
| Orbital Slot | Slot 4 (Plane 1) |
| Reference System | Geocentric |
| Current Status | No longer part of the GLONASS constellation |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kosmos 2403?
Kosmos 2403 is a Russian military navigation satellite, also known as Uragan No. 795, which was part of the GLONASS satellite constellation.
When and where was it launched?
It was launched on December 10, 2003, from Site 81/24 at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.
Which rocket was used for the mission?
The satellite was launched using a Proton-K carrier rocket with a Briz-M (Blok DM) upper stage.
What was its specific orbital position?
Kosmos 2403 was positioned in the first orbital plane within orbital slot 4 in Medium Earth orbit.
Is Kosmos 2403 still active in the GLONASS system?
No, it is no longer part of the active GLONASS constellation.