🚀 Soyuz 2.1b (with Fregat-M) | 🛰 Cosmos 2588
Launch date: May 23, 2025 08:36 UTC
Payload: Cosmos 2588
Location: Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia
Vehicle: Soyuz 2.1b (with Fregat-M)
On May 23, 2025 at 08:36 UTC, a Russian Soyuz 2.1b rocket with a Fregat-M upper stage launched the classified Cosmos 2588 military satellite from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome. The mission delivered Cosmos 2588 to a 67-degree inclined orbit, following a northeasterly trajectory. The purpose and function of Cosmos 2588 remain classified, in line with similar Russian military launches. This was the second Soyuz 2.1b launch of 2025.
Site 43, Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia
Site 43, located at the Plesetsk Cosmodrome in northwestern Russia, is one of the key launch complexes operated by the Russian Ministry of Defence. Since its activation in 1965, the site has played a significant role in launching various versions of the R-7 family of rockets, most notably the Soyuz series, for both military and civil space missions. The complex consists of two pads, 43/3 and 43/4, both historically notable for supporting a large number of launches including reconnaissance, navigation, and scientific satellites.
Throughout the Soviet and post-Soviet periods, Site 43 has been instrumental in supporting Russia’s space activities beyond the Baikonur Cosmodrome. Its continual upgrades allow it to handle modern Soyuz-2 rockets, ensuring the site’s relevance in Russia’s current and future space operations. Site 43’s long and active history underscores its importance within Russia’s national launch infrastructure.