The Cyclone-2 payload capability to medium and elliptical orbits was limited. That is why Yuzhnoye proposed to develop a three-stage launch vehicle, on the basis of the 8K69 missile, to launch Tselina, Meteor, etc. spacecraft.
Configuration: tandem.
The Cyclone-3 delivers spacecraft weighing up to 4000 kg into low and medium circular and elliptical orbits.
The Cyclone-3’s third stage was designed in a pressurized (‘ampulized’) version based on the Yuzhnoye’s engine capable of dual burn in zero gravity.
The launch vehicle was operated from Plesetsk launch site, Russia.
The first launch was performed on June 24, 1977.
The last launch occurred in January 2009. 122 launches were conducted in all, 117 of which successful.
Basic Specifications
|
Number of stages |
3 |
|
Dimensions, mm: Length Stage diameter Payload fairing diameter |
39 300 3 000 2 700 |
|
Launch weight (for a 3.6-ton payload), tons |
189 |
|
Propellants: Oxidizer Fuel |
NTO UDMH |
|
Thrust, tnf: Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3 |
303,2 101,5 7,96 |
|
Payload capability to circular and elliptical orbits, up to, tons |
4 |
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