The multifunctional space relay system (MSRS) "Luch" (the operating organization is JSC Gonets Satellite System, part of the Roscosmos State Corporation), successfully completed the tasks of targeted application during the launch of the Soyuz-2.1a carrier rocket with the Progress MS-25 transport cargo ship (TCS).
On December 01, at 12:25, a successful launch of the Soyuz-2.1a launch vehicle from the Progress MS-25 TCS took place from the 31st site of the Baikonur cosmodrome. On December 3, at 14:18 Moscow time, the cargo ship docked to the small research module "Search" of the Russian segment of the International Space Station (ISS RS). The launch of the spacecraft into a predetermined orbit, its separation from the third stage of the launch vehicle, the deployment of antennas and solar panels, as well as its flight and docking with the ISS took place in normal mode.
During the launch and flight of the Progress MS-25 TCS, the relay channels of the Luch MSRS were used according to a two-day approach scheme. After the cargo ship left the radio visibility zone of ground facilities, the transmission of telemetry data to the Flight Control Center (FCC) of the ISS RS, as well as the transmission of control commands on board the ship, was carried out using the Luch MSRS. In the course of further work, the Luch system was used to relay telemetry data from the Progress MS-25 spacecraft during its docking with the ISS RS. During the organization of the relay channels, 2 spacecraft of the system were involved: Luch-5A and Luch-5B, as well as means of a ground-based relay support complex. A total of 21 sessions were held.
Progress MS-25 delivered more than 2,500 kg of cargo to the ISS, including fuel for refueling the station, drinking water and nitrogen, as well as more than 1,500 kg of resource equipment, stowage for scientific experiments, food, medical and sanitary products to ensure the work and life of the crew of the 70th long-term expeditions.
Photo: Roscosmos State Corporation
