Russia's Launch Vehicles

Abstract

Abstract The history of cosmonautics and rocket building in Russia may be considered to have begun at the start of the twentieth century. The founder of these disciplines was the great Russian scientist K.E. Tsiolkovsky; major theoretical contributions were made by F.A. Tsander and Yu. V. Kondratyuk. Even in the prewar years, experimental work was being conducted to develop rocket technology for a number of purposes. Early research resulted in the development of the world's best volley fire (Katyusha) and aircraft missile systems. At the same time, experimental, jet aircraft and liquid‐fueled guided missiles were being designed and developed. The production facilities and supporting fundamental and applied science for these areas developed rapidly, serving as the basis for the start of the powerful space and rocket industry in the 1950s. This article details the history of Russia's development of launch vehicles. The current system of launch vehicles evolved during the process of addressing a whole set of tasks through design and use of previously developed military rocket and space complexes. Light class, intermediate, and heavy class vehicles are discussed. Specifications and modifications of Soyuz‐type vehicles are given. The future of Russian development is discussed. Among others, the Angara is a heavy launch vehicle under development. Reusable launch vehicles and transport systems are the focal points of future development.