Orlets-1

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Orlets-1 or Don (GRAU index 17F12) was a Russian (previously Soviet) reconnaissance satellite.[1][2]

Orlets-1 was developed after the Yantar-2K satellite was deemed incapable of providing strategic warning of attack. It drew on features of an existing draft project called Yantar-6K. Equipped with a wide-spectrum panoramic camera and carrying eight film return capsules, Orlets-1 had a design life of 60 days.[1] After completing its mission, the satellite was detonated in its orbit.[2]

The Soyuz-U[2] or Soyuz-U2[1][2] launch vehicle was used to deploy Orlets-1. An improved version, Orlets-2, was also created.[1]

References[edit]

  1. ^ a b c d NSSDC Master Catalog: Cosmos 2290
  2. ^ a b c d Gunter's Space Page: Orlets-1 (Don, 17F12)