Kosmos 2404: The First GLONASS-M Navigation Satellite
The Kosmos 2404 represents a significant milestone in the evolution of Russian satellite navigation. Launched as part of a strategic effort to enhance global positioning capabilities, this spacecraft was one of the first of its kind to be deployed into orbit, marking the transition to the modernized GLONASS-M generation.
Operated by the Russian Space Forces, Kosmos 2404 was launched as part of a trio of military satellites in late 2003. Together with Kosmos 2402 and Kosmos 2403, it was designed to strengthen the GLONASS (Global Navigation Satellite System) constellation, providing critical timing and positioning data for military and civilian applications.
Technical Specifications and Design
Kosmos 2404 is a Uragan-M type spacecraft, also known as the GLONASS-M. This specific model was manufactured by Reshetnev ISS. Within the organizational tracking systems, the satellite was identified by the manufacturer as GLONASS-M No.11L and designated as GC 701 by Ground Control.
The satellite was deployed into Medium Earth orbit (MEO), a region of space typically used by navigation satellites to ensure broad coverage of the Earth's surface. Specifically, Kosmos 2404 was positioned in the first orbital plane, occupying orbital slot 6.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Launch and Mission Timeline
The journey of Kosmos 2404 began on December 10, 2003, at 17:42 UTC. The launch took place at Site 81/24 of the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. To reach its destination, the mission utilized a Proton-K carrier rocket equipped with a Briz-M (Blok DM) upper stage.
Following its successful deployment, the satellite was tracked globally. It was assigned the International Designator 2003-056A and the Satellite Catalog Number 28112 by the United States Space Command.
The mission spanned over five years, providing essential navigation services until its eventual decommissioning. Kosmos 2404 was officially deactivated on June 18, 2009, ending a service life of 5 years, 6 months, and 8 days.
Key Facts
- Operator: Russian Space Forces
- Spacecraft Type: Uragan-M (GLONASS-M)
- Launch Date: December 10, 2003
- Launch Vehicle: Proton-K / Briz-M
- Orbit: Medium Earth orbit (MEO), Slot 6
- Mission Duration: 5 years, 6 months, 8 days
- Deactivation Date: June 18, 2009
Mission Summary Table
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| COSPAR ID | 2003-056A |
| SATCAT Number | 28112 |
| Manufacturer | Reshetnev ISS |
| Launch Site | Baikonur, Site 81/24 |
| Reference System | Geocentric |
| Status | Decommissioned |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the primary purpose of Kosmos 2404?
Kosmos 2404 was a military navigation satellite designed to function as part of the GLONASS constellation, providing precise positioning and timing data.
Which rocket was used to launch the satellite?
The satellite was launched using a Proton-K carrier rocket with a Briz-M (Blok DM) upper stage.
How long was Kosmos 2404 active in orbit?
The satellite remained active for 5 years, 6 months, and 8 days, from its launch in December 2003 until its deactivation in June 2009.
What is the difference between the Uragan-M and previous GLONASS satellites?
Kosmos 2404 was the first GLONASS-M (Uragan-M) satellite, representing a modernized generation of the Russian navigation system.
Where was Kosmos 2404 positioned in space?
It was placed in Medium Earth orbit (MEO) within the first orbital plane, specifically occupying orbital slot 6.