Soyuz 2.1a Vehicle Overview
A complete overview of the Soyuz 2.1a launch vehicle, including launch stats, vehicle info and launch locations.
Basic Info
Name
Soyuz 2.1a
Family
Soyuz
Manufacturer
First Launch
4 Nov 2004
Successful Launches
75
Failed Launches
3
Rocket Info (Soyuz STA Fregat)
Status
Active
Stages
3
Length
46.3 m
Diameter
2.95 m
Launch Mass
312 tons
Reusability
Not Reusable
Payload Info (Soyuz STA Fregat)
LEO Capacity
7,020 kg
GTO Capacity
2,810 kg
The Soyuz 2.1A converted the flight control system from analog to digital, which allowed launch from fixed platforms. It also allowed big fairings and payloads. It is used for crewed Soyuz and Progress flights to the ISS.
Launch Sites used by Soyuz 2.1a
Baikonur Cosmodrome
World's largest space launch facility, pivotal for Russian space missions.
Guiana Space Centre
European spaceport near the equator for satellite launches, managed by ESA and CNES.
Plesetsk Cosmodrome
Russian spaceport specialized in military satellites, known for high inclination and polar orbit launches.