Congratulations Proton on its 40th Anniversary!

Congratulations Proton on its 40th Anniversary!

The Proton launcher, one of ILS' two anchor vehicles, celebrates the 40th
anniversary of its first launch on July 16. Initially known as UR-500, the
vehicle was originally conceived to serve as both an intercontinental
ballistic missile and a space launch vehicle.

The first four flights lofted "Proton" satellites, and the vehicle then
adopted that name. From the two-stage configuration of its early years, the
Proton has grown to the three- and four-stage workhorse of the Russian
fleet.

Proton rockets have played a role in many historic events, such as launching
interplanetary missions that produced the first samples of the lunar surface
to be returned by an unmanned spacecraft, and the first soft landing on the
surface of Venus.

Proton continues to support the Russian government's satellite launch
requirements, provides vital transportation to the International Space
Station, and carries out commercial space launches for International Launch
Services.

The Proton vehicle has an incredible launch tempo, having accomplished 315
missions, including 33 for ILS.

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Jacques :-)

www.spacepatches.info