Kosmos 2402: A Component of the GLONASS Navigation System
The Kosmos 2402 is a Russian military satellite that served as a critical piece of the GLONASS (Global Navigation Satellite System), the Russian equivalent to the American GPS. Launched during a period of constellation replenishment, this spacecraft was part of a strategic effort to maintain global positioning capabilities for the Russian Space Forces.
Key Facts
- Operator: Russian Space Forces
- Satellite Type: Uragan (GC 794)
- Launch Date: December 10, 2003
- Launch Vehicle: Proton-K / Briz-M
- Orbit: Medium Earth orbit (MEO)
- International Designator: 2003-056B
Launch and Deployment
Kosmos 2402 was launched as part of a trio of satellites, alongside Kosmos 2403 and Kosmos 2404. The mission took place on December 10, 2003, at 17:42 UTC. The launch was conducted from Site 81/24 at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.
To reach its destination, the satellites were carried by a Proton-K rocket equipped with a Blok DM upper stage. This powerful combination successfully placed the three spacecraft into Medium Earth orbit (MEO), a circular orbit typically used by navigation satellites to ensure consistent coverage of the Earth's surface.
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Technical Specifications and Identification
The spacecraft is technically identified as an Uragan type satellite, specifically numbered Uragan No. 794. Manufactured by Reshetnev ISS, the satellite was designed for high-precision navigation and timing services.
In the global tracking system, the satellite is known by several identifiers. While the Russian designation is Kosmos 2402, the International Designator is 2003-056B. Additionally, the United States Space Command assigned it the Satellite Catalog Number (SATCAT) 28113.
Orbital Positioning
Upon deployment, Kosmos 2402 was positioned in the first orbital plane of the GLONASS constellation, specifically occupying orbital slot 2. This precise positioning is essential for the triangulation process used by receivers on the ground to determine their exact location.
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| COSPAR ID | 2003-056B |
| SATCAT Number | 28113 |
| Manufacturer | Reshetnev ISS |
| Rocket | Proton-K / Briz-M |
| Orbital Slot | Slot 2 (Plane 1) |
| Current Status | No longer part of the constellation |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of Kosmos 2402?
Kosmos 2402 was a military navigation satellite designed to provide positioning and timing data as part of the Russian GLONASS system.
Who operated the Kosmos 2402 satellite?
The satellite was operated by the Russian Space Forces.
Which rocket was used to launch the satellite?
The satellite was launched using a Proton-K carrier rocket with a Blok DM upper stage.
Where was Kosmos 2402 launched from?
It was launched from Site 81/24 at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.
Is Kosmos 2402 still active in the GLONASS constellation?
No, Kosmos 2402 is no longer a part of the active GLONASS constellation.