Soyuz-2.1a/Fregat | MetOp-B
MetOp is a series of three polar orbiting meteorological satellites developed by the European Space Agency (ESA).
The 2.1a version includes conversion from analog to digital flight control system and uprated engines on the booster and the first stage with improved injection systems. The new digital flight control and telemetry systems allow the rocket to launch from a fixed rather than angled launch platform and adjust its heading in flight. A digital control system also enables the launch of larger commercial satellites with wider and longer payload fairings such as the ST-type fairing. These fairings introduce too much aerodynamic instability for the old analog system to handle.
When is the Soyuz-2.1a/Fregat | MetOp-B launch?
What rocket is being used for MetOp-B?
Where is the Soyuz-2.1a/Fregat | MetOp-B launching from?
What orbit is MetOp-B going to?
Who is launching MetOp-B?
Can I watch the Soyuz-2.1a/Fregat | MetOp-B launch live?
Mission Profile
MetOp-B was a Soyuz 2.1a/Fregat-M mission operated by Starsem SA that lifted off from 31/6, Baikonur Cosmodrome, Republic of Kazakhstan on September 17, 2012. The flight carried its payload on a earth science mission to Sun-Synchronous Orbit. The launch was a success.