The State Commission for Flight Testing of Space Systems for socio-economic, scientific, and commercial purposes reviewed the test results of the high-elliptical hydrometeorological space system (VGKS) "Arktika-M" with the spacecraft (KA) "Arktika-M" No. 2.
The commission decided to conclude the tests with the commissioning of the spacecraft "Arktika-M" No. 2 and the use according to the purpose of the orbital grouping consisting of the spacecraft "Arktika-M" No. 1 and No. 2, as reported by Roscosmos' press service.
Thus, Russian designers have become the first in the world to create a hydrometeorological space system that provides continuous monitoring of the Arctic region of the Earth and adjacent territories.
Recall that the first "Arktika-M" satellite No. 1 was launched into orbit in February 2021. The second in December 2023. The two "Arktika-M" spacecraft within the system conduct around-the-clock monitoring of the Earth's surface and cloud cover and seas in the Arctic region and adjacent territories. Additionally, the devices ensure constant and reliable exchange of meteorological information and the determination of the location of ships, aircraft, and other mobile objects in distress. Data exchange is carried out through the international satellite system for search and rescue "COSPAS-SARSAT".
The VGKS "Arktika-M" and the "Arktika-M" series spacecraft are developed and manufactured by "NPO Lavochkin" (part of the State Corporation "Roscosmos"). The satellites are based on the unified "Navigator" platform, also developed by the designers of this NPO.