Cosmos 2343

CIS

Launch data:

Designation	24805 / 97024A
Launch date	15 May 1997
Launch site	B
Launch vehicle	Soyuz-U2
Mission	Military: reconnaissance
Satellite type	Orlets-1 #6, Don #6
Earth orbit on:
Perigee/Apogee	216/338 km
Inclination	64.9°
Period	90 min

It was the 1495th success launch of a launcher based on the R-7 ICBM, 666th launch of Soyuz-U, 250th launch of Soyuz-U from Baykonur and 350th launch in total score (including space launchers and ICBMs) from LC31 of Baykonur.

The satellite caused a great deal of controversy when in burned into the atmosphere on 23 Sep 1997 from the Western Isles to the north of England (UK).

End of life

Out of service	18 Sep 1997
Cause	deorbited and destroyed intentionally (explosive charge)
Decay	23 Sep 1997

Specifications

Prime contractor
Platform
Mass at launch	approx 6000 kg
Mass in orbit
Dimension	2.4 m diameter x 7 m length
Solar array
Stabilization	3-axis
DC power

Ref: #15 - update: 24.02.09