The Soyuz-2.1a carrier rocket, paired with the Kondor-FKA first radar satellite, was reported to be located within the launch complex at the Vostochny cosmodrome. Roscosmos confirmed the arrangement and ongoing preparations for the mission.
With the rocket now vertically positioned, Roscosmos engineers and technicians continue to finalize systems and conduct the final readiness checks ahead of liftoff. The mission, involving the Soyuz-2.1a launcher, the Fregat upper stage, and Kondor-FKA No.1, is scheduled for May 27.
This mission marks the second flight in the Soyuz-2 family to utilize naphthyl, a fuel formulation highlighted for its environmental benefits. Naphthyl is a hydrocarbon-based fuel enhanced with polymer additives, and it is associated with lower emissions and a notable increase in the payload mass that can be delivered to orbit when compared with some previous propellants.
The Kondor-FKA satellite is engineered for Earth observation through radar imaging, designed to operate reliably in all weather conditions and to deliver high-resolution data regardless of atmospheric conditions.
Earlier reports from Roscosmos noted that Vostochny, situated in the Amur Region, has been steadily increasing its launch activity. The facility is also expected to draw more tourist traffic in 2023 as spaceport operations expand and new infrastructure comes online in the region. [Roscosmos press materials]