NSSDCA/COSPAR ID: 2016-008A
A typical GLONASS-M spacecraft, developed by the Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems (ISS Reshetnev), is about 7.87 by 12.14 feet (2.4 by 3.7 meters) and has a launch mass of some 1.4 metric tons. With a total power of 1250 W, these satellites are designed to operate for up to seven years. Equipped with three caesium clocks, GLONASS-M can provide the accurate timing that is required for navigational purposes. The first spacecraft in the series was launched in December 2003, while the final satellite is expected to be sent aloft in late 2017.
Operated by the Russian Aerospace Defence Forces, GLONASS is currently the only global alternative to the U.S. GPS in terms of operational capability and global coverage. The development of the program started in 1976 with the first launch being conducted in 1982.
Launch Date: 2016-02-07
Launch Vehicle: Soyuz-2.1b/Fregat
Launch Site: Plesetsk, Russia
Questions and comments about this spacecraft can be directed to: Coordinated Request and User Support Office