|
|
GONETS
With earlier launches of two 250kg satellites in 1993 and four(?) more in 1995, a further 3 satellites were launched on a Cyclone-3 booster from Plesetsk Cosmodrome on the 19th February 1996, at a height of 1400km inclined at 82.5 degrees. Another similar launch of six satellites took place in early 1997. Each of these later two launches also included three similar satellites to make up a similar military constellation. A 1998 launch placed 6 satellites in a slighly different orbit due to launcher problems.
The system was planned before the allocation of frequencies for these services by the WARC-92, and the 300-400Mhz band is reserved for military use in most countries. The system was allocated secondary status by the ITU. VHF and UHF frequencies are employed, outside the WARC-92 bands. Data rates are 2400bps on the uplink and 9600bps on the downlink.
Spectrum allocations are reported to be holding up the progress for this system. In late 1997, a lack of investors is reported to have forced the shut down of the proposal. |
|
|
Gonets (Messenger) is a Russian messaging constellation, with dual military
and commercial uses. The current system comprises 18 satellites in 2 orbital planes, and
the system is planned to grow to 36 satellites in 6 orbital planes once the market is
established. One set of 8 satellites entered the incorrect orbit and its plane will drift
with respect to the others. The orbits are1400km inclined at 82.5 degrees, with individual
cell sizes 500-800km diameter. Only some of the satellites carry digital Store and Forward
payloads. The system is being run by Smolsat, and the satellites will operate as medical
and civil data relays. 