Reshetnev company information satellite systems no 14 2012 by Volker Baumann

№14, 2012

Информационные спутниковые системы

Dear colleagues, The fully deployed orbital constellation GLONASS provides great opportunities of using navigation and information services both in the Russian territory and all over the world. Today data obtained by means of the navigation satellites is widely applied for the benefit of various economic and social activities. It is very important that nowadays the sustainability of the Russian global satellite navigation system is ensured by the orbital reserve. ISS‑Reshetnev proceeds with developing leading edge navigation spacecraft that will replace the previous satellites after the end of their active life. In particular, work on a new advanced version of the next-generation Glonass-K is under way. At the same time the Reshetnev Company is focused on boosting the accuracy of navigation solutions to meet modern requirements. The further modernization of the GLONASS system will increase its competitiveness, strengthen its positions in the international market and make navigation services available for millions of users.

General Designer and Director General of Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems

Nikolay Testoyedov

Contents

Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems 52, Lenin Street, Zheleznogorsk, Krasnoyarsk region, 662972 Russia Tel: +7 (3919) 72-80-08 Fax: +7 (3919) 72-26-35 Editor-in-Chief � Svetlana Bashkova Managing Editor � Mayya Korotkova Contributors � Victor Chebotarev � Roman Ermolayev � Sergey Galochkin � Alexander Korenko � Yelena Prosvirina � Sergey Storozhev � Mikhail Valov � Vasily Zvonar Translator � Olga Bychkova Photo � Vlada Mineeva Design � Maxim Mikhalchenkov Published by Information Satellite Systems 2012 Information period: August 2011 – March 2012 For details please contact: pressa@iss-reshetnev.ru http://www.iss-reshetnev.com tel: +7 (3919) 76-45-25 No unauthorized photocopying

Fully operational GLONASS

Tandem launch

Payload modules: from integration to manufacture

Nikolay Testoyedov: “Innovation is the transformation of knowledge into money”

Ensuring system’s sustainability

Contribution to space exploration

Innovations: growth area

Advanced technologies to the benefit of manufacturing processes

Reliability to the finest detail

MiR for future ISS‑Reshetnev projects

Materials for space applications

Saft batteries for ISS-Reshetnev’s satellites

Memory till the end of time

Yangel and Reshetnev: from missiles to satellites

Information Satellite Systems

Achievements

FULLY OPERATIONAL GLONASS Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems has successfully completed the spacebased segment of the GLONASS navigation system. Launched into orbit in 2011, ISS‑Reshetnev-made satellites provided global coverage and enabled continuous navigation support to a wide range of users worldwide. In 2011 six satellites designed and manufactured by ISS‑Reshetnev were launched into orbit to replenish the GLONASS satellite system. The first to go was next-generation Glonass-K, it was successfully inserted into orbit in February 2011. The advanced navigation satellite Glonass-K, based on ISS‑Reshetnev’s unpressurised platform Express-1000K, is equipped with high-precision instruments that can be used in harsh conditions of outer space. At present the satellite is undergoing flight tests which verify its proper operating. Accuracy tests for on-board instruments are also under way. Last year apart from Glonass-K, another five satellites were put into orbit – three Glonass-M satellites were launched aboard one vehicle and another two spacecraft were launched separately. The GLONASS system is intended to provide global navigation signal availability enabling precise location and velocity information of an object to be obtained. An orbital constellation of 18 navigation satellites provides full coverage of the Russian territory, while the GLONASS system in its full operational capability (24 satellites) guarantees access to navigation ser‑ vices worldwide. The latest launches of Glonass-M satellites not only brought the system to its full capacity but also facilitated creation of the orbital re‑ serve. The availability of spares is an important factor that ensures the sys‑ tem’s reliability – a reserve satellite can be put into service in case of an opera‑ tional satellite failure. With the GLO‑ NASS orbital constellation currently incorporating 24 navigation satellites, the Reshetnev Company has successful‑ ly fulfilled its commitments under the program aimed at the replenishment of the space segment. It means that GLO‑ NASS has finally gone global and now provides world coverage. The Govern‑ ment of the Russian Federation highly appreciated the tremendous achieve‑ ments obtained within the restoration program. Now that the space segment

Spacecraft launches in 2002-2011 for the GLONASS system pcs

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of the system is completed, the further objective is to make effective use of it. As a matter of fact, the space-based segment of the GLONASS system was once brought to full capacity back in mid-nineties. Nevertheless, due to the difficult financial situation in the country at that time and associated tight financing of the GLONASS system in particular, the constellation was not replenished for some period and eventually fell into disrepair with the number of operational satellites decreasing by more than three times. The Federal Target Program “Global Navigation System” for 2002-2011 stipulated the development and replenishment of Russia's navigation satellites fleet. At the presidium meeting held in December 2011, the Council of general designers stated that all objectives concerning the replenishment of the GLONASS system within the Federal Target Program had been successfully achieved. Under the terms of the new Federal Target Program for 20122020 Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems is to

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support and further develop the spacebased segment of the national satellite navigation system. Next launches of the Glonass-M and Glonass-K satellites will enable the Reshetnev Company to enlarge and provide support for the current constellation as well as to create the orbital reserve. Moreover, ISS‑Reshetnev is currently hard at work on a new Block II Glonass-K satellite. Unlike their predecessors, modernized satellites of this type will broadcast new code-divisionmultiple-access signals. The Block II Glonass-K satellites are expected to boost navigation accuracy, reduce interference, enhance the system’s operational characteristics and expand application opportunities. The GLONASS navigation system has begun to generate interest not only in Russia, but in the world market as well. ISS‑Reshetnev, the only Russian enterprise manufacturing navigation satellites, implements key space projects to ensure national security and promote compatibility and interoperability between GLONASS and other foreign global positioning systems.

Information Satellite Systems

Achievements

Tandem launch One of the greatest achievements that marked the year of 2011 for Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems was the successful launch of the Loutch-5A and AMOS-5 spacecraft on December 11, 2011. It became a milestone event for the company and provided all means for strengthening its positions in both the domestic and international markets. The two spacecraft were delivered to orbit by a Proton-M/ Breeze-M launcher. It was the first time the Reshetnev Company carried out a dual launch with two satellites placed one upon another under the vehicle’s fairing. The capacity to perform tandem launches gives the Reshetnev Company substantial competitive advantages when signing contracts and taking part in tenders. It can be easily explained, as launch costs for a middle-class spacecraft reduce by 50%. The telecommunications spacecraft AMOS-5 was designed and produced by ISS‑Reshetnev for the Israeli satellite operator Space Communication Ltd. The project is of special importance for the company, since this is the first synergy between ISS‑Reshetnev and an Israeli company. At the same

time AMOS-5 is the second satellite following the European SESAT that was developed for a foreign customer. Based on ISS‑Reshetnev’s middle-class unpressurised platform Express‑1000H, AMOS-5 features advanced technical specifications and a 15-year active lifespan. It accommodates 36 transponders in C- and Ku-bands. Work on transponders and antennas was subcontracted to the French division of Thales Alenia Space. AMOS-5 is to offer communications, broadcast and broadband services over Africa and Israel. In 1,5 months after the launch the satellite started to provide commercial services. The data-relay spacecraft Loutch‑5A was developed and manufactured by Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite

Loutch-5A and AMOS-5 integration into a Proton-M launcher

Systems within the scope of the Federal Space Program for 2006-2015. It is the first satellite in a series intended for the multifunctional data relay system Loutch. The spacecraft is based on ISS‑Reshetnev’s unpressurised platform Express‑1000. It was the first contract with the Reshetnev Company being responsible for the design and manufacture of a payload module, including a complete relay subsystem. Loutch-5A will provide communications between ground control segments and low-orbiting spacecraft, launching vehicles and their upper stages. Loutch‑5A will also receive and transmit KOSPAS-SARSAT distress signals, meteorological data, navigation signals as well as data from the International Space Station. Successful dual launch of these satellites enabled Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems to proceed with pursuing its advanced development strategies: producing spacecraft for the state multifunctional data relay system Loutch and implementing telecommunications projects for foreign customers.

AMOS-5 and Loutch-5A lifting off from Baikonur

Information Satellite Systems

Payload modules: from integration to manufacture Payload module is perhaps the most critical part of any spacecraft as it allows a satellite to fulfill its designated mission in orbit. Nowadays ISS‑Reshetnev is shifting from purchasing payload modules from foreign companies to the commercially viable in-house design and production. The memorandum, signed on November 18, 2011 between Academi‑ cian M.F. Reshetnev Information Sat‑ ellite Systems and the French division of Thales Alenia Space laid the founda‑ tion for moving towards the in-house manufacture of payload modules (PLM). Signing of the document took place in Moscow and was carried out in the pres‑ ence of Vladimir Putin and François Fillon, Prime Ministers of Russia and France, Vladimir Popovkin, head of Roscosmos and Jean de Gliniasty, Am‑ bassador Extraordinary and Plenipoten‑ tiary of France to Russia. The document stipulates the creation of a joint venture aimed at the development of payloads for spacecraft. It is anticipated that co‑ operation with TAS experts will help the Reshetnev Company to gain valuable knowledge and expertise in the payload production. Thales Alenia Space is ISS-Reshet‑ nev’s long-standing partner. Over the 18 years of collaboration the two companies have manufactured over ten spacecraft and currently they are implementing as much as ten joint sat‑ ellite projects. In 2006 under the Ex‑ press‑AM33 program TAS, one of the world’s leaders in PLM production, pro‑ vided extensive training for the Reshet‑ nev Company’s specialists in the area of payload design. Multiple joint projects and accumulated experience resulted in ISS‑Reshetnev being capable of manu‑ facturing payload modules in-house. The Reshetnev Company has recently built and successfully launched the data-relay satellite Loutch-5A, which accommodates the onboard relay complex made by ISS‑Reshetnev using imported parts. It is expected that the company will have carried out the same load of work on Loutch-5B by the end of this year. With respect to its commercial projects, such as communications satellites Yamal-300K, Express-AM5, TELKOM-3 and AMOS-5, the company

Memorandum of understanding between ISS-Reshetnev and TAS was signed in the presence of prime ministers of Russia and France is also increasing its participation in payload production. Within the scope of the previous programs ISS‑Reshetnev’s payload contributions included the design and manufacture of payload structures, whereas now the company is also responsible for designing and building antenna systems, payload structure elements; payload assembly, integration and tests. Payload cost makes up 50 to 70% of the overall spacecraft cost, that’s why it is highly profitable for the company to undertake as much payload work as possible. Taking into account that a payload is intended to perform a set of standard functions, such as data reception, handling and transmission, many national and foreign companies offer basic modules that are suitable for a wide range of payloads having different technical specifications and target missions. In general, application of payload modules in satellite production proves to be cost-effective and helps to shorten the length of the satellite production time.

Today there is every likelihood that in the long run the Reshetnev Company, implementing sustainable development strategies and building more and more high-performance spacecraft, will significantly increase its payload contributions to the future projects.

Assembling instruments for Loutch-5B payload module

Information Satellite Systems

Interview

Nikolay Testoyedov: “Innovation is the transformation of knowledge into money” Successful development of Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems and other scientific and production enterprises is an important factor that ensures national security and defense capabilities as well as stimulates social and economic development. Nowadays ISS-Reshetnev, being a leading satellite manufacturing company, not only puts its highly competitive products on the market, but also collaborates with a great number of foreign partners, wins tenders and signs international contracts. General designer and director general of the Reshetnev Company Nikolay Testoyedov believes that satellite design and development should not boil down to mere technological enhancement of spacecrafts’ technical specifications. It is crucial to adopt an intensive development strategy enabling the company to manufacture products that will provide brandnew quality services. In this interview Nikolay Testoyedov discussed recent trends in the telecommunications industry and the Reshetnev Company’s major keystones to success.

High-frequency testing of Loutch-5A’s payload instruments

Information Satellite Systems

- Mr. Testoyedov, what is the development strategy currently pursued by ISS-Reshetnev? - I might say that it is impossible to specify the development strategy of the company without a kind of a look to the past. Five years ago our company had a development strategy that differed from the present-day one. At that time we were short of new orders, production volume was decreasing and all these factors led to the “survival” development strategy, i.e. the company was striving to increase the production volume, attract new national and foreign customers, gain access to the global market and retain qualified personnel. Fortunately, we successfully overcame all these difficulties. Nowadays the situation in the company is completely different. We no longer need to prove that ISS-Reshetnev is the leader in the manufacture of satellites in Russia. We have stepped into the growth pattern and now our company is well positioned for further advancement, 4 international projects are currently being implemented. At the same time we set more aims: not just to increase production volume, but also to develop and manufacture nextgeneration satellites. We have already developed new competitive platforms Express-1000 and Express-2000, and now we proceed with increasing the number of solutions as well as enhancing their quality – our company works on Ka-band technologies, designs and develops new large-sized antennas and enhances power properties of satellites. ISS-Reshetnev’s main strategic objectives in the field of spacecraft manufacture are set on the in-house production of payloads. We were not able to attain this objective for fifty years, but I can say that now we are capable of accomplishing this goal. Our company is gradually switching over to import substitution and increasing its payload contributions in new projects. All the activities I am taking about are carried out within the framework of the state space programs: the Federal Space Program, the Federal Target Program GLONASS, the State Armaments Program and other various commercial projects. - What technological solutions does the company plan to develop in the nearest future? Will ISS-Reshetnev get involved in scientific space exploration programs or, for instance, manufacture meteorological satellites?

- The Reshetnev Company has not neglected any of its leading-edge technologies over the recent years, quite the contrary, all of them have been further developed. Each ISSReshetnev-made satellite surpasses the previous ones in terms of technical specifications and provided services. If to talk about advanced solutions, I would like to mention large-sized structures manufactured by our company. It came of no surprise when 5 years ago Roscosmos chose the site of our enterprise to establish the Industrial center for large-sized foldable mechanical structures as we have many advantages over the leading European companies in this field. Nonetheless the key development strategies for the next 10 years will be focused on the development, production and integration of payload modules. As for spacecraft intended for remote sensing, meteorological and scientific purposes, the Reshetnev Company implements a number of projects in two ways. Being a supplier of various assemblies and subsystems we take part in satellite production programs carried out by Lavochkin Research and Production Association and Rocket and Space Corporation Energiya. We also started a new type of activities aimed at the development and manufacture of remote sensing satellites. We have already built an Engineering Qualification Model of a spacecraft intended for agricultural applications. - The global satellite market is the area of severe competition. What is being done in order to strengthen ISS-Reshetnev’s positions? Which countries, in your opinion, are among the company’s potential customers? - The global satellite marketplace is very challenging as it faces tough competition for contracts. Nowadays in many sectors of aerospace industries worldwide the supply exceeds the demand. Moreover, operators tend to set too high and often unrealistic expectations regarding technical specifications of satellites to be designed and produced. That is why every new satellite is a kind of a compromise between a customer and a manufacturer. It would not have been possible for our company to achieve such positive results without the help from the Federal Space Agency, which provided support and financed the development of new advanced middle-

Key development strategies for the next 10 years will be focused on the development, production and integration of payload modules. and heavy-class satellite platforms even when the overall financial situation was extremely tough. These new technological solutions, based on ISS-Reshetnev’s solid expertise, and the reliable quality assurance system enabled our company to enter the international market. The current situation requires, as it is stated in one American proverb, that you have to run faster to stay in place. We are constantly developing the relationships with our potential customers. We clearly understand that nobody is waiting for us in Europe, America and China as these countries have their own satellite production, they are interested in creating more workplaces. But there are other countries – those of Latin America, Africa, Arabia and Indochina, which no longer settle for buying satellite services from western suppliers, but are now aimed at the development of

Loutch-5B’s payload instrument module

Information Satellite Systems

Interview

their own national products – informa‑ tion networks and television systems. They nowadays prefer being customers rather than just consumers of services offered by Western Europe and America. That is why these countries are our potential customers in the present, so it’s no coincidence that we are currently designing and developing spacecraft for Israel, Indonesia, Ukraine and Kazakhstan. - ISS-Reshetnev owns the full production cycle – satellites are designed, manufactured, tested and controlled at the company’s site. What’s about the promotion of not only complete spacecraft, but associated solutions as well? Is it economically viable to offer this kind of products? - We need to refer to psychological principles if we want to understand whether it is economically effective or not. There are closed communities and systems that live by the maxim: “We work only for ourselves and will not let anyone to implement our solutions, will not deliver our components, assemblies

Express-2000 platform

We work on large-sized antennas to provide personal mobile communications – these services are absolutely innovative. and instruments to anyone because we are the best”. In fact, our company ISSReshetnev is really the best in many fields of the Russian cosmonautics. But it should be noticed that such uncooperativeness would be extremely harmful for our company, much as for any other enterprise. Nowadays it is pointless and economically ineffective for each company of the space industry to develop a complete satellite production cycle; much better is to specialize in some specific areas. Roscosmos

establishes industrial centers with enterprises being involved in the design and manufacture of particular technical solutions. We believe that it is absolutely right to deliver not only completed satellites, but also independent components, assemblies and subsystems. For example, we have built solar panels for the Elektro-L and Spektr-UF spacecraft manufactured by Lavochkin Research and Production Association. For our company it is not just yet another order, since we have many projects and programs to implement. The point is that different satellites have different technical specifications, which, in its turn, requires that engineers design new structures. And then, having developed some advanced solutions we can use them in our future spacecraft projects. In other words we modernize various assemblies and mechanisms using money allocated for the realization of another project, and then implement new ideas for the production of our satellites. This approach proves to be reasonable from the economical point

Large-sized foldable antenna for Loutch-5A

Information Satellite Systems

of view. Besides, that opportunity of developing new solutions under other companies’ projects is much more valuable and useful in the long run than the profit itself. So sometimes it is possible to realize an unprofitable project, taking part in the development of another spacecraft and thus advancing technological solutions. Nowadays in industry, economics, education and other spheres innovations are among top priorities for driving growth. The innovative development is central to your company’s strategies and performance. Could you tell us a little more about it? - Let me remind you that the simplest and the most comprehensive defini‑ tion of the word “innovations” sounds like “the transformation of knowledge into money”. Having taken a look at the company’s development over the recent years I might say that we have used almost all extensive approaches available at this very moment. I mean we have increased shift and overtime work to the possible extend and also we now run all processes at full load. But these methods have certain limitations. Nowadays we pursue the strategies of intensive development. Our company approaches innovations in various ways, some of the enhancements are easy to see – new high-performance equipment, computer-aided document manage‑ ment, computerization. The others are not so obvious but still are of pivotal importance for the company – up-todate software used for a comprehensive range of applications at all stages of the spacecraft production; components with a higher degree of integration, systems unification. All these processes are innovative to a certain extend, but at the same time they are the integral part of the production intensification. The key factor is a new quality. For example, there is nothing innovative about the fact that the company has purchased a new tool with a processing speed of 30000 revolutions per minute. But if this equipment enables us to machine not only ordinary parts but honeycomb structures as well (which is impossible to do on the equipment with a lower rotary speed), that is when we can talk about some kind of innovations. These new properties enabling the manufacture of brandnew structures lead to enhanced performance characteristics of satellites.

TELKOM-3, being built for Indonesia, in cryogenic vacuum chamber We broaden the range of our products and services being innovated. If we talk about spacecraft in general, innovative development can be seen as the use of new frequency bands, which will result in enhanced broadband services available to users. It is another, higher level of quality. We also work on large-sized antennas to provide personal mobile communications – these services are absolutely innovative. - You are a top manager of the large company; do you face the future

with confidence? What is about the company’s stability and prospects in the years ahead? - Of course, I look positively to the future. My confidence is based on many factors. I feel confident when looking back at the history of our enterprise – many years ago M.F. Reshetnev founded a scientific and production association with a prime role of a design bureau. The company remained viable even during tough times when only enterprises which produced endproducts had chances to survive.

Assembling solar panels intended for a spacecraft being built by Lavochkin Research and Production Association

Information Satellite Systems

Interview

We rely on leadingedge production facilities, a good quality management system, and highly qualified personnel. Many years ago it was decided to organize a full cycle of ground testing at ISS-Reshetnev, and I can say that the decision has proven to be absolutely right, as nowadays ISS-Reshetnev is the only enterprise in Russia whose spacecraft are transported from the company’s site directly to a cosmodrome. All this is possible due to the fact that all types of satellite tests are carried out in-house. Our company possesses leading-edge production facilities, a good quality management system, and highly qualified personnel. This is what we rely on. The company does not depend on the prices of verifications, production expenditure and many others. This is the confidence of the present day. The confidence of tomorrow is supported by our participation in longterm strategic federal programs: the Federal Space Program, the Federal Target Program for the GLONASS development, the State Armaments Program and other ones carried out by the Ministry of Communications and Mass Media as well as other ministries and departments. It gives us clear understanding of our future strategies,

Solar array orientation device for a spacecraft being manufactured by Rocket and Space Corporation Energiya

specifications of spacecraft yet to be built and expected production volume. Taking account of these factors we can predict salaries our specialist will receive in 10 years. We also can specify our requirements for specialists training. Nowadays some 450 students at a number of Russian universities are being prepared for ISS-Reshetnev. That is to say, we prepare specialists, guarantying them good salaries, opportunities of further promotion and scientific research, as well as providing social support and assisting them in solving housing problems. It is obvious that strong confidence in the future is an essential condition for placing such an extensive order for specialist training. - Which achievements of the company within the recent years are you particularly proud of? - I think this is the most difficult question. It’s like asking somebody which child of his or her own is the most loved one. Being a satellite designer, I am extremely proud of every ISS-Reshetnev-made spacecraft being launched and switched on in orbit. Satellites’ flawless in-orbit performance is a quintessence of a great load of work done under a project: spacecraft manufacture, control over and support to subcontractors, and a comprehensive system of personnel training. We should be proud of many things: production advancements, innovative design and technological solutions, problem solving during satellite tests. We should be proud of each step forward, but still the launch of a satellite is a culmination of all efforts. - How do you manage to successfully run a company with a number of employees exceeding 8 000 people? - It is not right when the fruitful work of a team is driven only by the personal characteristics of a leader. Academician M.F. Reshetnev Infor‑ mation Satellite Systems’ keystone to success is its effective management system. The only change that I had to introduce when I was appointed head of the company was to promote an idea that the company’s system, all efforts and all activities are to be focused on the ultimate goal. There should be no separate sectors, units and entities that work solely for themselves. We have to consolidate our efforts to accomplish the main aim and thus to yield positive

results. We are focused on achieving the ultimate objective – manufacture of a satellite; this is our top priority, not achievements of numerous departments and units. I suppose that it is the key to success. - In 2008 ISS-Reshetnev completed the integration of 9 Russian companies into one structure. How is this structure managed? Has this new entity proven to be economically efficient? What is the development strategy for the future? - The integrated structure has already shown its efficiency. It is very important not to go to the two extremes. The first one is to make all companies of the integrated structure branch affiliates and to exercise full control over their financial, technical and manufacturing activities. And the second extreme is to take no care of these companies having included them in the integrated structure only formally. I think we have opted for the most optimal strategy. We implement a two-tier management system of a joint-stock company when 100% of shares of each company in our integrated structure are transferred to the parent enterprise – Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems. For each company the head enterprise appoints a board of directors with the majority of members being its representatives. In its turn, each board of directors appoints head of a company. This approach facilitates creating a solid, comprehensive management system which is crucial for sustainable strategic development of the company, not for wasting time and efforts on micromanagement. We have all conditions to communicate and cooperate effectively within our integrated structure, as there are the Board of directors, the revision commission, a system of performance indicators and certain abridgements in each company’s articles of association which enable to control these companies if any unstable situation occurs (connected with property relations, credit activities and others). In the process of integration we carried out an audit in each company and assessed their production, personnel, technological and financial performance. Today we continue setting new standards which are to be common to each company of the integrated structure, thus ensuring that best practices are followed by all our members.

Information Satellite Systems

Strategy

Ensuring system’s sustainability The orbital constellation GLONASS has been brought to its full operational capacity and now comprises 24 satellites. The formation of the orbital reserve provides great opportunities of using the system effectively. In order to maintain the system’s potential, a comprehensive range of measures are to be taken, which implies the replenishment of the space segment carried out in time. Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems, being the only Russian enterprise that manufactures navigation satellites, is responsible for the space-based segment – the main component of the GLONASS global navigation satellite system. Maintenance, utilization and further development of the GLONASS system is to be implemented under the Federal Target Program for years 2012-2020. The program follows the previous one called “Global navigation system” which was successfully completed in 2011. Now the Russian government and companies of the space industry have to apply certain efforts to provide opportunities of making effective use of GLONASS. The satellites that make up the orbital constellation have designed in-orbit life spans (Glonass-M and Glonass-K series satellites have 7-year and 10-year mission lives, respectively). It is obvious that when a satellite comes to an end of its service life, the system calls for replenishment. Moreover, nowadays technologies are developing in leaps and bounds and users’ requirements to the GLONASS system are constantly growing as well. All these factors stipulate for the further modernization of the GLONASS navigation system. It is also very important to maintain the achieved competitiveness and to further promote interoperability with the system’s foreign counterparts (primarily the American GPS). The more GLONASS is used in vari‑ ous areas of our lives from the coun‑ try’s defense to the strategic economic sectors, the higher standards for the system’s accuracy, availability and in‑ tegrity are set. GLONASS becomes mul‑ tifunctional and more efficient, thus

for the improvement of its performance advanced satellites and a modernized ground-based infrastructure are needed. All these objectives can be attained through implementation of the Federal Target Program “Maintenance, develop‑ ment and utilization of the GLONASS system” for years 2012-2020. During the first stage of implementing the Federal Target Program (2012-2015) the system is to be maintained in its current operational status, while the next-generation Glonass-K satellites are to complete their in-orbit flight tests. Then (starting from 2016) the Glonass-M satellites (with their mission lives coming to an end) will be gradually replaced with new Glonass-K spacecraft. As soon as the replenishment is completed in 2020, there will be no less than 22 operational Glonass-K satellites orbiting the Earth. It is expected that within the framework of the Federal Target Program “Maintenance, development and utilization of the GLONASS system” for 2012-2020 Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems will manufacture and launch 13 Glonass-M (plus 2 Glonass-M spacecraft produced under the previous Target Program) and 22 Glonass-K satellites. In accordance with the program and the launch schedule, the dedicated companies of the space industry are responsible for the supply of launch vehicles and upper stages.

Manufacture schedule for years 2012-2020

Quantity, pcs

Glonass-M spacecraft

Glonass-K spacecraft

Soyuz-2.1b launch vehicle

Fregat upper stage

Proton-M type launch vehicle

DM-03 or Breese-M upper stage

Information Satellite Systems

Professionals

Contribution to space exploration The spacecraft production is one of the most science-driven and high-technology engineering industries. It requires thorough modernization and investment in research and development, as well as employing the most highly-qualified personnel. ISS-Reshetnev’s specialist share a common aim of developing the Russian cosmonautics, and their efforts gained high appraisals from the Government. Experts, who have made the most outstanding and significant contributions to the development of the space industry were awarded the Government’s Yury Gagarin Prizes. The prize was established in 2011 to celebrate a remarkable date – the 50th anniversary of the fist human space flight. The Prize is awarded every 5 years to the Russian Federation citizens who made significant contributions to the development of the national space industry. As of today there are 50 Yury Gagarin Prize winners in our country, 9 of whom are ISS-Reshetnev’s specialists. Among all space enterprises that took part in the competition, Information Satellite Systems became the only company that received Prizes for the two submitted projects. The first project was dedicated to space communications systems – their production, testing and utilization.

The work is based on the company’s solid experience and a broad range of activities focused on the development of more advanced communications satellites. Great work of its specialists enabled the Reshetnev Company to improve quality and reliability of space solutions and to occupy leading positions in the global telecom market. Constantly advancing space technologies require a forward-looking strategy on personnel training. That is the reason why the second project of ISS-Reshetnev was dedicated to the issues of effective human resource management based on the combination of science, education and industry. Over the recent years the Reshetnev

Company in tandem with Siberian State Aerospace University has put great efforts into the development of an integrated infrastructure targeted on specialist training in the field of cosmonautics. This special profession-oriented program enables ISS-Reshetnev to select the best undergraduate students and offer them good job opportunities. Great load of work done within the program’s framework and good results obtained helped the HR policy of Information Satellite Systems to receive industrywide acknowledgement. The Government’s Yury Gagarin Prize winners are telling about their personal contributions to the Russian space industry.

Authors of the work titled “Production, testing and utilization of communications space systems for social-economic, military and dual-purpose applications”

- Under the project I was responsible for the section “Company development”, more specifically, I was describing technological equipment, experimental facilities and achievements of the company from its inception and till the present day. In our work that was submitted to the competition, we showed the most leading-edge engineering and technological solutions being

Mikhail Mikhnev, first deputy chief engineer – chief production engineer

adopted by ISS-Reshetnev in the satellite production. Capabilities to produce high-quality space systems and a comprehensive range of manufacturing and experimental facilities enable Information Satellite Systems to take the lead in the space industry. Our work can be used as a guide to developing sustainability strategies and referred to by other companies.

Information Satellite Systems

- The work was aimed at the fulfilling of a crucial state objective – deployment and development of space-based communications systems, which are of utmost importance for the national infrastructure. Working under this project we have introduced a number of solutions targeted on enhancing technical and operational performance characteristics of spacecraft, as well as arranged new experimental facilities. Over the recent years the Reshetnev Company has made some major breakthroughs,

such as large-sized foldable antennas and a direction finder, which facilitated high-precision tracking of low-orbiting spacecraft. New facilities were organized, providing the opportunity of conducting electro-magnetic compatibility testing on multiband payload modules, and also verifying phased antenna arrays of the Potok spacecraft. Taking advantage of its onboard instruments and state-of-the-art facilities, the company is successful at developing modern satellite systems for various applications.

Petr Sivirin, head of the department for the development of communications and data-relay systems

- The Government Prize is recognition of my contributions to the common cause. Initially, working as the head of a processing facility, I was responsible for practical implementation of our specialists’ ideas. I conducted R&D works and developed application opportunities for new processing methods. Then, having been appointed to a new position at the department for consolidated planning and coordination, I gained a wider range of duties – now I am in charge of the design and production processes scheduling: everything starting from

signing of a contract and ending with spacecraft commissioning to the customer. All activities culminated in numerous launches of satellites, which are now carrying out their missions in-orbits. It is always very pleasant to receive recognition for what you have done. It should be stressed, though, that these positive results have been yielded by a large ISS-Reshetnev team. I know that there are many high-qualified specialists in Information Satellite Systems, both experienced and young ones, who also deserve to be awarded this notable prize.

Gennady Sorokvasha, head of the department for consolidated planning and coordination

- The project provides an insight into ISS-Reshetnev’s achievements in building satellite systems which are deployed in all types of orbits. As for my own contribution, I supervise and participate in a broad range of activities at all stages – design, testing and production of on-board electronics. I can say that there are certain achievements in instrument production that the Reshetnev Company can be proud of. For instance, in 1970s our enterprise

was the first in the USSR to develop a gyrostabilizer for linear control of spacecraft acceleration and deceleration. The implementation of this instrument resulted in more precise Earth-positioning of satellites. Meridian spacecraft accommodates a unique high-precision directdrive antenna pointing mechanism. From my point of view the prize is a proper evaluation of ISS-Reshetnev’s high-quality instruments, and welldeserved recognition of its personnel.

Eugenie Krutskikh, deputy chief designer of the department for radio-electronic instrument engineering and testing

Information Satellite Systems

Professionals

- In 1965 I was assigned to supervise the manufacture of the largest thermal chamber in Siberia – TBK-120, intended for thermal vacuum tests of satellites. Since that time I have been responsible for vacuum testing of spacecraft systems under various environment conditions and I have been also involved in the development of test rigs. Over the past years ISS-Reshetnev has arranged a substantial number of unique experimental facilities, which enables the company to carry out the full cycle of spacecraft verification and

acceptance tests. One of the most recent technological advancements available at ISS-Reshetnev is a horizontal vacuum chamber for thermal testing of spacecraft featuring increased power and dimensions. Yury Gagarin Prize is recognition and, in point of fact, is the result of many years of hard work. We still have many things to do to innovate and streamline experimental processes, but it is already obvious that today the company possesses the most leadingedge equipment in the space industry.

Valery Khristich, leading specialists at the department of pneumatic-and-vacuum testing

Authors of the work titled “Creation of the integrated system aimed at attracting, training, retaining of specialists and researchers and their professional growth in the space industry” - This prize is the highest appraisal of ISS-Reshetnev and SibSAU’s advanced system of personnel training, based on the industry-education tandem. Many ISS-Reshetnev specialists have done a lot for the development and implementation of this system and I have contributed to this program too, being a teacher and head of a department at the university. Initially specialists for our enterprise were educated within the framework of the “production plant – higher technical education institution” system. Over the recent years the system has changed considerably and now it meets all presentday requirements for personnel training,

which means that it is the company to decide on the quantity and qualification of specialists it needs. Following these training strategies, ISS-Reshetnev is to specify what specialists are in demand for its science-driven production. Siberian Aerospace University in cooperation with the Reshetnev Company has established favorable conditions for the effective up-to-date specialist training. Being head of the department, where the majority of specialists are engineers, I appreciate efforts of the Resource center in developing cooperation strategies between the university and the real production enterprise.

Vladimir Khalimanovich, director of the Industrial center for large-sized foldable mechanical structures

- We have succeeded in the creation of an integrated system, which involves attracting, training and retaining young specialists in the company. We worked on this project together with Siberian State Aerospace University – our strategic partner in the field of specialist training. The awarded prize is the result of 50 years of fruitful cooperation between ISS-Reshetnev and the university. We have developed and implemented many useful solutions. But the most important is that today the effectiveness of our joint efforts can be clearly seen – the

Sergey Kukushkin, deputy director general for human resource management

Reshetnev Company does not suffer from the lack of qualified personnel. It is also remarkable that Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems is the first enterprise of the space industry that has been awarded such a high prize for its personnel policies. Now other companies of the industry are planning to follow our lead. I would like to express my gratitude to human resource specialists and ISS-Reshetnev experts who are also excellent educators. I am extremely proud of the company I work for!

Information Satellite Systems

- From my point of view the impor‑ tance of this work for the university, ISS-Reshetnev and the education system as a whole is that it supports the presentday cooperation strategies pursued by SibSAU and the Reshetnev Company. For many years the university has been following the integrated system of student preparation, when students are not only taught theoretical subjects but also have splendid opportunities to gain first-hand experience at the enterprise. NPO PM, now – ISS-Reshetnev, has always been one of SibSAU’s strategic partners in this matter. In addition to

this, we carry out a number of joint activities in the Industrial resource center “Spacecraft and space systems” that was established at SibSAU with the support from the Reshetnev Company. I was honored and pleased by the awarded prize. It is recognition of our team’s tireless efforts and our contribution to the development of science and education in Russia, the development of the space industry. I would like to emphasize that this success was achieved due to close collaboration between SibSAU and ISSReshetnev, a combination of educational, scientific and research activities.

Igor Kovalev, rector of Siberian State Aerospace University

- ISS-Reshetnev specialists, who took part in the development and implementation of our project called “Creation of the integrated system aimed at attracting, training, retaining of specialists and researchers and their professional growth in the space industry” are involved not only in the industrial activities within the enterprise, but also in specialist training. I have been head of the space engineering department at SibSAU for more than 25 years already. Over this period we have prepared over 300 specialists, who later became high-qualified engineers, team leaders and brilliant experts, working in ISS-Reshetnev as well as other companies of the space industry. During the last 15 years Information Satellite Systems had been gradually

improving the “production plant – higher technical education institution” system and finally introduced a new approach to efficient specialists training and personnel management. It includes profession-oriented courses, the young specialists program and professional development courses. Sustainable personnel strategies and the results achieved have shown our system’s integrity. I think that Yury Gagarin Prize, awarded by the Government of the Russian Federation is the praise to the entire team of ISS-Reshetnev. It is a great honor for our specialists and at the same it is the profound gratitude to the company which enabled us to become professionals.

Eugene Golovyonkin, chief academic secretary of the Scientific and technical council

- The project was aimed at the development of cooperation strategies between our company and universities. And cooperation between Academician M.F. Reshetnev and Siberian State Aerospace University gives evidence to the fact that we have achieved good results. I took part in the development and realization of joint projects aimed at the establishment of innovative infrastructure in SibSAU, which includes the Industrial resource center,

a student center for mission control of small satellites, an observatory and a number of educational centers. As a result, SibSAU facilities were brought into compliance with personnel training requirements, specified by ISS-Reshetnev and other high-technology enterprises. We have provided all means for efficient personnel training and attracting young specialists to the rocket and space industry.

Kirill Okhotkin, leading specialist for innovative development

Information Satellite Systems

Development

Innovations: growth area The manufacture of satellites and associated products is a highly demanding process, based on latest technological and scientific breakthroughs. It requires continuous enhancement and is always innovative. It came as no surprise when Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems was chosen to host the 1st Innovation Forum of the Krasnoyarsk region. The forum brought together over 200 participants from Russia and other countries – authorities, representatives from industry, businessmen, scientists and specialists in the field of innovative infrastructure. Lev Kuznetsov, Governor of the Krasnoyarsk region, Andrey Gnezdilov, Deputy Governor, and Vadim Medvedev, Mayor of Zheleznogorsk were among the first to deliver keynote speeches at the opening ceremony. The main focus of the forum was on the development of industrial parks as potential centers of innovative development. Work on an industrial park of this type is currently under way in Zheleznogorsk. It is expected that it will include about 50 new production and experimental facilities with ISSReshetnev being one of the main customers. In this respect at the plenary session Victor Kosenko, first deputy general designer and director general of the Reshetnev Company made a report «ISS-Reshetnev as a business customer of industrial park residents». Successful implementation of the project will enable Information Satellite Systems to expand its product range and bring satellite production to a qualitatively new level in order to better compete with foreign spacecraft manufacturers. Within the framework of the forum, the participants addressed a great

number of issues regarding international best practices in setting up industrial parks, support for innovative companies, problems and prospects of scientifictechnological development both in the Krasnoyarsk region and all over Russia. Specialists from Singapore, Finland and Great Britain held presentations sharing their countries’ experience in this field. There is no doubt that solutions, introduced during the forum will be of great importance when pursuing innovative development. The event took place in one of ISS-Reshetnev’s modern production facilities, the only site of this kind in Russia for the manufacture

Glonass-K mock-up at the Innovation forum

and testing of large-size foldable mechanical structures. The forum visitors also had an opportunity to attend an exhibition organized by the Reshetnev Company. For this event ISS-Reshetnev demonstrated models of the next-generation satellites Glonass-K and Loutch-5A as well as spacecraft parts made of high-tech materials. Expositions of ISS-Reshetnev and other forum participants provided an insight into the innovative component of the region’s economy, one of the symbols of which, according to Lev Kuznetsov, the Governor of the Krasnoyarsk region, is Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems.

Information Satellite Systems

Advanced technologies to the benefit of manufacturing processes

Spacecraft antennas, being a highly labor- and knowledge-intensive type of technological solutions, must meet strict quality and competitiveness requirements. That is why Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems puts great efforts into developing this type of products and further proceeds with its re-equipment strategy.

ISS‑Reshetnev has recently commissioned a new modern facility dedicated to the manufacture of largesized foldable reflectors and antennafeeder devices. The site is used for the production of one of the most important spacecraft structures – antennas, which can be rigid and foldable, of different diameters. The Reshetnev Company built a new facility specially for this type of structures. Over the first year all the necessary manufacturing and experimental equipment was delivered to the new building – rigs for large-sized antennafeeder devices, a gravity compensation system for antenna components. The site also includes an autonomous area measuring 26 meters in length and 12 meters in width, enabling complete build-up of antenna systems. The area was designed to meet specified temperature, humidity and cleanliness requirements; and conducted measurements verified its compliance to the approved standards. The clean area is large enough to enable ISS‑Reshetnev specialists to simultaneously assemble five antennas measuring 4-5 meters in diameter. It is expected that when the site becomes fully operational it will be possible to work on several large-sized foldable systems at the same time. Assembly and adjustment of largesized reflectors is to be conducted using a laser measurement system delivered by Nikon Metrology (Belgium). It is worth saying that for this very purpose this equipment has never been applied before. The site is also supplied with a vector network analyzer, a laser scanner and a rotary mechanism. Besides, ISS‑Reshetnev already purchased various hoists and an overhead crane, all driven by electric motors, thus it ensures site cleanliness,

which is extremely important for the high-accuracy reflector production. The first high-technology solutions, manufactured in the new facility, are currently receiving their flightproven status. For instance, the datarelay satellite Loutch-5A, launched in December 2011, accommodates foldable antennas with reflectors made of goldplated mesh. The new site also has place allocated for the assembly and adjustment of solar arrays intended for spacecraft based on ISS‑Reshetnev’s platforms of the Express-2000 series. The recentlyinstalled rig is universal and allows experts to carry out not only assembly

procedures, but also all required tests, including flash-testing of unfolded solar arrays. The available space is sufficient for the assembling of solar arrays having any dimensions, which are currently utilized by ISS‑Reshetnev. It is also possible to simultaneously work on two solar arrays intended for middle-class spacecraft. Commissioning of the state-ofthe-art facility that meets world standards is highly important for the technological re-equipment and modernization of ISS‑Reshetnev, as the company is aimed at the manufacture of leading-edge products – marketable both in Russia and all over the world.

Portal frame for solar array assembly

Information Satellite Systems

Development

Reliability to the finest detail A spacecraft proves to be reliable and shows flawless in-orbit performance, provided that parts and components used in its manufacture are of high quality. Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems cooperates with many Russian enterprises, manufacturing sophisticated electronics, and foreign suppliers of electro-radio equipment. It is common knowledge that general specifications of a satellite, such as its mass, dimensions, mission life and reliability depend on the quality of electronics used.

Inspection at all stages Manufacture of high-reliability on-board instruments is not only the question of proper design and leadingedge solutions, electronic components do also matter. When developing and producing advanced spacecraft, ISS-Reshetnev aims at using as many Russian parts as possible. Nevertheless, during economically unstable time back in 1990s, the Russian electronics industry began to fall behind the rapidly-developing foreign ones – and this is the primary reason of using imported components in satellite production today. As opposed to western countries, electronic components in Russia are not divided into three groups with respect to their quality standards – INDUSTRY – MILITARY – SPACE. Yet, electronics, used in spacecraft’s on-board systems must possess enhanced performance characteristics, i.e. increased radio resistance and reliability. When ISSReshetnev purchases components from Russian enterprises, it carries out a lot of incoming testing and inspection, as well as a number of additional verifications. All components undergo the full circle of testing according to a fixed inspection scheme, which is referred to not only by ISSReshetnev, but also other companies of the integrated structure that are involved in satellite manufacture. ISSReshetnev specialists continuously control this process at all stages. In case the Reshetnev Company places an order for custom-made components it has an opportunity to monitor the production of electronics, starting from purchasing raw materials and throughout to final tests. This scheme

ISS-Reshetnev Council on electro-radio components is equivalent to the foreign production of SPACE components, when electronics is manufactured to a special order and under stringent control. In order to ensure higher reliability ISS-Reshetnev subjects all components to a comprehensive range of tests – each part is at first tested independently, then it undergoes tests at instrument level, system level, and finally spacecraft-level verification. It also should be said that tests take place in an environment much tougher than the expected real conditions of space and launch, so having passed all check-out procedures elements prove to be spacequalified.

Russian spacecraft greatly depend on imported electronics, for instance, ISS-Reshetnev’s telecommunications satellites have 30-50% of their elec‑ tronics made of imported components. At the same time the company tries not to use components of the INDUSTRY category. In case ISS-Reshetnev is forced to do so due to the unavailability of SPACE and MILITARY counterparts, imported components are subjected to a comprehensive range of tests. Although MILITARY components do have a required level of radio resistance, they undergo additional verification, since very often these specifications are not mentioned in supporting documents.

Information Satellite Systems

10th anniversary Council on electro-radio components In an effort to ensure high levels of satellites’ reliability, representatives of the integrated structure of Information Satellite Systems every year arrive to ISS-Reshetnev facilities to attend a meeting devoted to this issue. In 2011 ISS hosted the 10th anniversary Council on electro-radio components. The event brought together over 100 industry representatives and two ISSReshetnev’s customers – Russian Satellite Communications Company and Gazprom Space Systems. The council is focused on the introduction and implementation of a universal methodology of using electro-radio components in spacecraft production. The need for such a methodology is obvious, since spacecraft systems consist of a great number of various electro-radio components, which can be supplied by a wide range of enterprises. Last year, Lavochkin Research & Production Association took part in ISS-Reshetnev’s Council for the first time. The decision to participate in the meeting was made due to the fact that the two companies are currently implementing a number of joint projects dedicated to the production of solar panels, antenna actuators to be installed on scientific spacecraft, as well as using various components delivered by the integrated structure of Information Satellite Systems. Having discussed all the issues concerning electro-radio components at the 10th Council, the representatives of the Reshetnev Company came to a decision to use imported parts of SPACE and MILITARY quality only. Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems constantly raises the question about the quality of Russian-made parts, since import substitution in the aerospace industry is a matter of national security. Customers of the Reshetnev Company, who usually take part in the event, emphasized the productivity of the Council’s decisions. Alexander Andreev, head of the quality and reliability assurance department of Gazprom Space Systems, commented on the importance of the Council and its positive results, “We see the high degree of the Council’s effectiveness, moreover it is Russia’s most powerful authority that deals with quality assurance of electro-radio components. Solutions,

introduced within the framework of the meetings, are practically applied to Yamal-300K and Yamal-401 satellites that ISS-Reshetnev is building for our company.”

Searching for solutions Any customer, specifying the re‑ quirements a future telecommunica‑ tions satellite will have to meet, makes certain contributions to the choice of instruments to be used in its design. In-orbit performance reliability is one of the key factors for a company when ordering a satellite. As was mentioned above, quality of electroradio components contributes a lot to spacecraft’s power capabilities and mass budget. The more advanced a satellite is, the less it weights, which results in using less expensive smaller launchers. Satellites operators are interested in how soon a satellite will pay back their investments and begin to earn profit. Quality of electronics also depends on storage conditions that a component is exposed to from the moment of delivery to the company’s site and till its installation on a spacecraft. It is highly crucial to protect electro-radio components from static electricity. ISS-Reshetnev has recently built a new storage facility for electro-radio components. It is expected that this year the company will deliver the most leading-edge equipment, including those made of antistatic materials, a system for maintaining proper levels

In order to ensure high spacecraft reliability, ISS-Reshetnev subjects all components to a comprehensive range of tests.

of temperature and humidity necessary for storing electronic components. The Reshetnev Company monitors and ensures high quality of electronics at all stages of satellite production. One of the most important instruments for dealing with spacecraft electronics is the Council on components, which in close collaboration with the its partners and customers helps finding appropriate solutions to the most challenging situations that Russian satellite manufacturers face today.

Inspection of electro-radio components at Testing Technical Center – NPO PM (member of the Reshetnev Company)

Information Satellite Systems

Projects

MiR for future ISS‑Reshetnev projects Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems constantly develops new solutions for space technologies. The small spacecraft MiR (Yubileiny-2) is one of them. The satellite was named after Mikhail Reshetnev, the founder and the first director of the company. The previous satellite for scientific purposes – Yubileiny – was placed into orbit in 2008 and since then it has exceeded the designed lifespan by three times and now is still carrying out its mission. ISS‑Reshetnev has recently completed MiR, and the satellite is to be inserted into LEO with the next launch of a Rockot vehicle.

Importance of small satellites

Platform configuration

MiR in-orbit mission

Small satellites play a great role and are of high importance for the development of modern space technologies. Spacecraft of this type have many advantages and are valued on their small dimensions and relatively low cost. In addition to this, such satellites can be launched in cluster with other spacecraft, which results in reduced expenses. Small satellites are used for testing new engineering and technological solutions and carrying out research missions. What is more, these satellites can be manufactured within a short period of time, which makes them highly attractive and suitable for projects with tight time limits. Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems has been designing and developing small satellites from the very inception of the enterprise. Besides the Strela-1 and Strela-1M series, ISS‑Reshetnev also developed amateur radio satellites of the Radio, Zeya and Mozhaets series. Many of these spacecraft had quite short mission lives, but nevertheless they enabled the Reshetnev Company to succeed in testing new telecommunications and navigation technologies and studying the influence of space radiation.

The new small satellite, like its predecessor Yubileiny, is based on the unified platform of the same name. The platform comprises an unpressurised hexahedral instrument module, divided into three parts by honeycomb panels (namely upper, middle and bottom panels). The upper panel encloses the payload; the middle panel carries instruments, whereas the lower one includes magneto-gravitational AOCS (for 3-axis stabilized small spacecraft) and antennas for navigation sensors. Solar panel modules, mounted on the outer side of the instrument module, are made of high-efficiency triple-junction gallium-arsenide and supply the spacecraft with energy during sunlight. The hexahedronshaped instrument module provides the required effective area of solar panels in various positions of the spacecraft relative to the Sun. A nickel metal hydride battery is a source of energy for the spacecraft during eclipse periods. The platform features a passive thermal control system – the required thermal parameters for the on-board equipment are maintained within specified ranges by using thermooptical properties of external surfaces, electric heaters, insulation system and heat pipes.

The research satellite MiR enables testing new advanced technological solutions introduced by ISS‑Reshetnev and a number of its associate companies. In particular, MiR is to be used for effectiveness verification of the following structures and components: contoured heat pipes, new technological enhancements for onboard radio equipment and small-sized sensitive, high-precision elements of AOCS (including small-sized magnetic torquers for satellites’ AOCS). These tests would contribute to the further technological enhancement and development of satellites yet to be designed. A number of experimental instruments for the MiR satellite have been manufactured with the participation of students and research members from Siberian State Aerospace University (SibSAU). The company closely collaborates with this university, allowing students to be involved in the process of satellite production. The research and education center “Space systems and technologies” held by ISS and SibSAU, and joint activities under the MiR project provide extensive training and hand-on experience for talented young people, who in near future might work for the Reshetnev Company.

Information Satellite Systems

Some instruments designed and pro‑ duced in tandem with SibSAU are used for testing the remote Earth sensing technology, in particular, it is a camera intended for observing the Earth sur‑ face. Nowadays ISS‑Reshetnev pays great attention to developing the re‑ mote sensing technology. The payload also includes a small WEB-camera – an important in‑ strument enabling ISS specialists to continuously observe the satellite’s deployment mechanisms and moni‑ tor the performance of satellite com‑ ponents, structures and instruments made of advanced composite materials. In-orbit performance data will be ana‑ lyzed and referred to in the manufac‑ ture of next-generation satellites. The new satellite is also tasked with testing the optical properties of solar concentrators, using an experimental solar panel module. In addition to this, a compact navigation receiver installed in MiR (intended to obtain the spacecraft’s orbit parameters using the GLONASS and GPS technology) will also undergo flight tests. The MiR satellite will fulfill its orbital mission in the circular low Earth orbit. The designed active lifespan of the spacecraft is one year.

MiR specifications Orbit type

low Earth orbit (up to 1500 km)

Telemetry and command frequencies - Uplink

145 MHz

- Downlink

435 MHz

Radiolink frequency

2.4 GHz

Platform mass

30 kg

Payload mass

35 kg

Payload power supply

no less than 40 W (orbit average)

Mission life

1 year

The satellite’s mass is 65 kilograms. It is expected that MiR will be launched by a Rockot vehicle from the Plesetsk

Cosmodrome. Due to the satellite’s small dimensions it will be inserted into orbit as a hosted payload.

Electrical testing of MiR

Information Satellite Systems

Technologies

Materials for space applications Materials, used in the development of new advanced satellites have to meet rigorous requirements – they must resist vibration loads induced during transportation and orbit insertion phases, withstand vacuum conditions, effects of ionizing radiation and temperature extremes in space. Satellite specifications also include mass efficiency, which is a challenging task of structural design. Every year Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems comes up with about 40 new materials to be applied in the satellite production. Constantly advancing spacecraft systems drive the development of numer‑ ous leading-edge materials in the search for more mass efficient structures and longer active lifespan of satellites in or‑ bit. Some of the new high-strength and light-weight structural materials are engineered solely by ISS-Reshetnev, whereas some research projects are joint efforts between the company and Russia’s leading research institutions. The Reshetnev Company has proven to be successful in creating a wide range of composite materials: carbon fiber, or‑ ganoplastics, fiberglass, as well as new metal alloys: titanium and aluminiumlithium. Carbon-fiber reinforced plas‑ tics are widely used in the production of separation systems and satellite body elements: adapter, central isogrid tube, honeycomb panel sheets, antenna reflec‑ tors, solar panel farms and structures. Modern satellites use composites for at least 60% of their structures. Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems, cooperating with its associate enterpri ses and scientific institutions, produces carbon fiber adhesives, transferable adhesive layers, next-generation carbon yarns, polymer films and injectionmolded polymer materials. One of the advanced developments are structural adhesives, which are used to piece together spacecraft parts. The main properties that new adhesives have to obtain are high strength at 120-150°C and low outgassing. This is of particular importance as outgassing products can condense onto optical elements resulting in malfunction of spacecraft’s thermal control, electric power supply and AOC systems. ISSReshetnev is currently working on lowoutgassing film adhesives which are to be used in future satellite projects.

Ultimate composition analysis of a silicon sample On-board instruments requires tem‑ perature to be maintained within speci‑ fied ranges, that is why thermal stabil‑ ity is the extremely important factor, determining spacecraft’s lifespan and reliability. Thermal control coatings are used to reduce temperature deviations, optical and radioelectronic instrument failures, enabling to design satellites with mission lives up to 15 years. One of ISS-Reshetnev’s advanced solutions is an optical solar reflector. Information Satellite Systems has developed a sophisticated technology for gold-plating of small-scale details and the inner side of waveguides. Among other solutions introduced by the company there are several types of dimensionally-stable cords, implemented to form the shape of antenna reflector. Radio-absorbing structural material, used in the support honeycomb panels for antenna systems is ISS-Reshetnev’s breakthrough in material engineering. It prevents

signal reflection from a satellite’s metal parts and has many advantages over its foreign counterparts in terms of radiotechnical performance. An idea of developing new materials arouses when there is a need for some

An idea of developing new materials arouses when there is a need for some specific properties to be obtained.

Information Satellite Systems

specific properties to be obtained. For instance, at higher frequencies a reflector’s surface has to be of a special quality. Satellite designers can also specify certain requirements that a material will have to meet, such as enhanced radio-absorption, radiotransparency and thermal stability, increased strength. Sometimes materials, developed for special requirements of one spacecraft are then used in the production of other satellites. For example, radio transparent thermal control coating was engineered specially for the datarelay satellite Loutch-5A. It is used to inhibit the effects of electrostatic discharge and to protect the spacecraft from excessive solar radiation and electrostatic charging. The coating is also valued on its ability to significantly reduce thermal deformation induced by uneven sunlight distribution on a spacecraft’s surface. Now the new solution is being implemented in the manufacture of other next-generation satellites. ISS-Reshetnev subjects recentlydeveloped solutions to a comprehensive range of tests in order to examine how the severe space environment affects new materials. Developments undergo thermal cycling tests in thermal vacuum chambers, are exposed to UV radiation in vacuum plants. Apart from that, mechanical, optical and thermophysical properties of materials and coating composition are measured prior to and upon completing of experiments. The Reshetnev Company carries out tests not only within its experimental site, but in other testing centers as well. For instance, National Research

Tomsk Polytechnic University assists ISS-Reshetnev in conducting radiation tests on new materials. Due to the fact that advanced materials are developed with the implementation of latest solutions and achievements in the field of physics and chemistry, ISS-Reshetnev closely collaborates with the scientific community. The most reliable proof of a material’s effectiveness involves it being flight-tested and then inspected. Material samples are sent to space aboard a satellite, so as experts have a great opportunity to examine their behavior in real environmental conditions. Tests of this kind are successfully carried out in the Reshetnev Company with material samples being included in calorimetric sensors. Results obtained under natural conditions facilitate the prediction of changes in optical properties as well as further development of more advanced stable coatings. ISS-Reshetnev not only implements new materials in the manufacture of its own spacecraft, but also contributes its leading-edge solutions to other Russian satellite producers. In particular, the space observatory Spektr-R (Lavochkin Research and Production Association) launched in July, 2011, accommodates solar array frames made of materials developed by ISS-Reshetnev. Space material engineering, being a promising research direction, is a top-priority issue for the Reshetnev Company, which is tasked with the design and manufacture of advanced satellites for a wide range of applications.

Tool for applying hi-tech coatings

Radio-absorbing structural material, used in the support honeycomb panels for antenna systems is ISS‑Reshetnev’s breakthrough in material engineering.

High-modulus dimensionally-stable cord

Sample of radio-transparent thermal control material

Information Satellite Systems

Cooperation

Saft batteries for ISS-Reshetnev’s satellites

When Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems commenced developing new advanced platforms for telecommunications spacecraft with a 15-year lifespan, it faced the necessity of finding more efficient onboard energy sources. Rechargeable Lithium-ion batteries are generally valued on their high power density in comparison with other types of batteries. Thorough research of the key markets revealed that a French company Saft has the most remarkable track records in terms of performance, reliability and space-proven technological solutions. The companies’ representatives first met in 2006 when ISS-Reshetnev experts came to France for a working visit. General Manager of Saft’s Space and Defense Division and the company’s team showed keen interest and expressed willingness to cooperate with Information Satellite Systems. ISS-Reshetnev delegation

got acquainted with Li-ion production technologies, visited the lithium cells production plant in Bordeaux and assembly facilities in Poitiers. The expediency of utilizing the French products was not open to question, as Saft-produced lithium-ion batteries have many advantages over previously applied nickel-hydrogen

ones – almost 1.5 times increased power efficiency, lower heat dissipation and very low self-discharge. Equipped with Saft batteries and other leadingedge technical solutions, a satellite platform is able to support the larger power demands of modern advanced spacecraft without increasing the overall mass.

Information Satellite Systems

During Saft representatives’ visit to ISS-Reshetnev in 2008, Nikolay Testoyedov, ISS-Reshetnev General Designer and Director General and Philippe Jehanno, Saft’s General Manager of Space and Defense Divi‑ sion signed a Memorandum of under‑ standing. The document was signed in the presence of Stanislas de Laboulaye, Ambassador Extraordinary and Pleni‑ potentiary of France to Russia, and stipulated the supply of Li-ion batteries for ISS-Reshetnev’s future satellite projects based on the Express-1000H platform. Philippe Jehanno highly ap‑ preciated the importance of the docu‑ ment and said that “it is the beginning of long-term partnership”. Following that important event, several months later the French company and the Siberian satellite manufacturer signed the first contract at the VII International Investment Forum Sochi2008. Under the terms of the document the French company was to deliver its advanced battery systems to power the telecommunications satellite AMOS-5. The package consisted of Saft’s recentlydeveloped VES180SA cells. In 2009 ISS-Reshetnev placed two more orders with Saft to supply Li-ion energy storage for its TELKOM-3 and Yamal-300K spacecraft. At the present moment the manufacture of these two satellites is nearing completion. In 2010 at the Saint-Petersburg International Economic Forum the two companies signed a frame contract on the partnership strategies for a threeyear period. The document significantly simplifies the process of concluding purchase orders, as it contains the main technical and financial aspects of cooperation between the two companies. There is every likelihood that the frame contract between ISS-Reshetnev and Saft will be prolonged. Over the recent years Saft and Aca‑ demician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems have signed eight contracts for the supply of 20 battery systems (near 950 Li-ion cells) for 10 tele communications satellites. One of them – AMOS-5, built for the Israeli satellite operator, was successfully launched and is now carrying out its in-orbit mission. Saft is also tasked with deliv‑ ering its high-efficiency battery systems for ISS-Reshetnev’s foreign projects – TELKOM-3, Lybid and Kazsat-3 spacecraft, as well as Express‑AM5, Ex‑ press-AM6, Express‑AM8, Express‑AT1, Express-AT2 and Yamal-300K, being manufactured for Russia’s leading

satellite operators. The heavy-class Express-AM5 and Express-AM6, having the highest power demand will accom‑ modate more batteries than the rest satellites. The Reshetnev Company plans to use high-energy Li-ion batteries in future spacecraft projects based on the advanced Express-1000 and Express2000 platforms. Saft batteries were among the important technological solutions that greatly contributed to the development of the advanced platforms – the base of highly competitive spacecraft, ordered by Russian and foreign satellite operators. At the same time Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems is now considering the possibility of purchasing Li-ion batteries for its small satellites, designed for remote-sensing applications. It is obvious that fruitful cooperation between ISS-Reshetnev and Saft has great long-term prospects. Results of the productive cooperation were included in two scientific papers, contributed to the 3rd European Conference for AeroSpace Sciences in July 2009 and the 9th European Space Power Conference in June 2011. Both events were held in France under the guidance of the European Space Agency. The scientific articles, representing a joint effort between ISS-Reshetnev and Saft, provided an insight into the Russian-French cooperation in the area of high technologies.

Li-ion batteries by Saft

Equipped with Saft batteries and other leading-edge technical solutions, a satellite platform is able to support the larger power demands of modern advanced spacecraft without increasing the overall mass.

ISS-Reshetnev specialists accepting batteries in Saft

Информационные Information Satelliteспутниковые Systems системы

On Earth and in Space

Memory till the end of time The beginning of space exploration opened a new page in the history of humanity. It comes naturally that people, reaching new horizons, aspire not only to gain new knowledge but also to make memories of major breakthroughs and achievements in cosmonautics last forever. Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems offers a great opportunity of installing information plates on its Glonass-M satellites, which is a good way to memorialize important events. Aluminum sheets, measuring 120 x 260 x 1 mm, are installed to stabilize the overall mass and alignment of a satellite, as the number of instruments is not the same in different spacecraft. The plates are arranged in piles and mounted on the antenna unit. The number of plates can vary, depending on the equipment mass. Engraved plates fulfill the same functions as the ordinary ones – inscribed lettering or graphics have no impact on their properties. ISS‑Reshetnev established this tradition in 2004. Since that time the company has already sent to space about 70 plates with information about outstanding specialists and important events that made history. One of the plates, accommodated by the Glonass-M №45 satellite, was devoted to the 50-th anniversary of Yury Gagarin flight to the outer space. The Glonass spacecraft was inserted into orbit with another two satellites in 2011 (the year was announced as “The year of Russian cosmonautics” by the President of Russia). Besides the anniversary date the plate also contains the Soviet cosmonaut’s photo and his famous words: “Orbiting Earth in the spaceship, I saw how beautiful our

Installation of an information plate on Glonass-M planet is. People, let us preserve and increase this beauty, not destroy it!” One of the satellites that was inserted into orbit in 2008, contains information about the Tunguska phenomenon, as it was 100 years since it had taken place. On about 50 plates there are names of ISS‑Reshetnev specialists who made great contributions to the development of navigation satellites. The information plates are mounted on Glonass-M satellites for a number of reasons. First of all, this tradition is aimed at emphasizing the role of Russia as a leading space power. The most significant achievements in the Russian cosmonautics, space communications, navigation and geodesy are engraved on the plates to be remembered forever. Secondly, the information plates make memory of prominent scientists, Russian satellite developers and other important people and companies that made inestimable contributions to the space technology. And finally, interesting facts about the space industry that are sent to space could draw schoolchildren, students and young specialists’ attention to the space technologies and their importance in our life.

In most cases the plates contain information about space exploration, but there are also records of important events in the history of Russia, for instance, heroic feats during the Great Patriotic War. ISS‑Reshetnev, having a profound respect for its specialists who defeated our motherland at that time, made plates with their names. Decisions on what information should be written on the plates are made by the special council at the Reshetnev Company. All people who want their message to be sent to space are welcome. Just imagine, your name (or any other proposed information) orbiting the Earth at the altitude of 20000 km high! It should be mentioned, that information plates have very long lives in space, their existence is not limited by satellites’ life spans of 7-10 years. They can stay in orbit for many hundreds of years. Truly an everlasting memory. Victor Chebotarev Doctor of engineering, professor, leading design engineer General spacecraft and systems engineering department

Information Satellite Systems

History

Yangel and Reshetnev: from missiles to satellites Academician M.K. Yangel made a significant contribution to the creation and development of the Reshetnev Company. He was friends with the founder and the first director of Information Satellite Systems. Both Mikhails - Reshetnev and Yangel - were followers of S.P. Korolev, the founder of applied cosmonautics. It is not surprising that their lives crossed paths when the young Reshetnev Company was implementing its key projects. Academician M.F. Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems evolved from a branch of Korolev's renowned design bureau OKB-1. Located in Zheleznogorsk (formerly known as Krasnoyarsk-26) the company was supposed to provide design support for ballistic missile production set up at the Krasmash plant in Krasnoyarsk. One of the Krasmash production sites was located in the closed town of Krasnoyarsk-26. Later, in the 1970s this production division and the subsidiary design bureau became one company. In 1959-1960 the Siberian branch of Korolev's OKB-1 was busy accumulating knowledge, building capacity and mastering advanced technologies. This period was also associated with the construction of the manufacturing facilities and development of design and testing approaches. Reshetnev specialists visited leading enterprises of the missile sector on a regular basis to exchange experience and get necessary information which was not described in any textbook. One of those working visits led to fateful changes. Mikhail Reshetnev had known Mikhail Yangel, head of OKB-586, since the times when they both worked for Scientific-Research Institute No.88, located near Moscow. Their meeting in Dnepropetrovsk went off in a friendly atmosphere. Yangel told Reshetnev about the prospects of development of his design bureau and explained the reasons why the R-9 missile had been taken out of production. They also discussed the plans of engaging the Krasmash plant in the R-14 missile project. Yangel considered it illogical to assign OKB-1's branch the design support of the R-14 missile project which was supposed to be implemented at the Krasmash plant in

M.K. Yangel Krasnoyarsk. The idea of establishing in Krasnoyarsk a subsidiary of OKB586 seemed unreasonable either. Therefore, Yangel proposed Reshetnev to set up an independent design bureau. This idea inspired the Reshetnev team and in December 1961 OKB-1’s branch in Krasnoyarsk-26 was transformed into OKB-10 under the leadership of Reshetnev. Meanwhile Yangel’s design bureau that specialized in the creation of powerful strategic missiles received a new government task – to create the R-16 intercontinental ballistic missile which was expected to become the most advanced missile in the world. This project was of crucial importance and required huge concentrated efforts. At the same time the R-14 missile program was also vital for the USSR Armed Forces and, thus, required allout-effort. So, after short negotiations

M.F. Reshetnev it was decided to hand over the R-14 missile project to the Reshetnev team. In 1961 the Siberian team started to work on the design documentation and make preparations for the pro‑ duction of the R-14 missile (8K65). The OKB-10 team started to work on a new project having exerted all ef‑ forts. The Siberian engineers under‑ stood that it was an opportune time to demonstrate their potential. The R-14 missile was expected to balance Soviet and American military capacity during the Cold War. Besides, this missile was ideal for peaceful application. The R-14 design was intended for a new rocket and space complex which was aimed at removing the gap between the USSR and USA in the sphere of lightweight LEO satellites. In mid January, 1962 the first R-14 missile, manufactured in Siberia, was launched from Kapustin Yar. It was

Information Satellite Systems

History

a very significant event for the whole OKB-10 team and for the Krasmash plant. Work on the R-14 missile meant that the status of the enterprise had finally shaped. It was an important milestone for the young Siberian engineers who proved their professionalism in this sphere. Later the same year the Krasmash plant launched serial production of the 8К65U missile — a silo-based version of the R-14 missile. The first regiments armed with 8K65U missiles were put on combat duty in Ukraine and Latvia. In September, 1962 within the Tulpan program R-14 missiles with a nuclear charge underwent a range of tests. The R-14 missile was getting a more powerful and dangerous weapon. Besides, as it was expected, this missile was used to create a new launch vehicle. At the beginning of the 21st century the R-14 missiles proved to be in high-demand despite the end of their lifetime. They were used to carry out commercial launches of foreign satellites manufactured in the USA, Germany and other countries. In 1961-1963 the OKB-10 team hurled all effort into conducting ground tests of the launcher. Siberian engineers developed a project, issued a set of the design documentation and made experimental models for static and dynamic tests. In 1962 the Krasmash plant began to manufacture the 65S3 launcher (GRAU Index: 11K65, also known as Cosmos-3).

Model of the first satellite built in Siberia On August 18, 1964 Cosmos-3 was launched into space with three mockups aboard – Cosmos-38, Cosmos-39 and Cosmos-40 (the Strela-1 series). They were equipped with radio transmitters for in-orbit operation control. Thus, the first Siberian-born launch vehicle entered space. In the 1960s a total of 14 launches of Cosmos-3 were carried out within the flight development tests. In addition, the Cosmos-3 launcher was manufactured at the facility №2 of the Krasmash plant. The second stage of testing, lasted till the end of 1965, was associated with the team-work of OKB-10 and OKB-586. At the end of 1965 M.K.Yangel decided to hand over the 65S3 launcher production to OKB‑10. Consequently, M.F. Reshetnev

OKB-10 specialists visiting OKB-586 to receive documentation for R-14 missile

was assigned the chief designer of this project. M.K. Yangel made a significant contribution to the development of both missile and satellite manufacturing industries. In this regard, the first satellites manufactured at the Siberian enterprise under M.F. Reshetnev deserve a mention. In mid 1961 the Reshetnev team began to develop the 75-kilogram Strela-1 satellite with an operational lifetime of 3 months. This type of satellites was intended for a new experimental communications satellite system destined for the USSR Ministry of Defence. It was planned to launch groups of 3-5 satellites by a Cosmos-3 launcher into circular orbits at an altitude of 1500 km. Yangel’s decision to hand over the launcher project to OKB-10 proved reasonable considering national interests. Besides, it was approved by the Military-Industrial Committee of the USSR. OKB-586 kept its position of the main spacecraft and missile manufacturer and, thus, was assigned to provide scientific and technical assistance to the Siberian enterprise. The Reshetnev team was conducting tests of the Cosmos-3 launcher and simultaneously was developing its advanced version – Cosmos-3M (Index: 11K65M). In May, 1967 the enterprise launched its first Cosmos-3M from the Plesetsk spaceport. In December, 1971 Comos-3M was put into service. The Siberian-born Cosmos-3 and Cosmos3M manufactured at the enterprise under M.F. Reshetnev, Siberian of Ukrainian origin, and with the backing of M.K. Yangel, Ukrainian of Siberian origin, occupied an important place in the history of national and world cosmonautics. Successful launches of R-14, its versions - Cosmos-3 and Cosmos-3M as well as the first Strela-series satellites proved that Reshetnev’s team had taken and passed its first and a very important exam. Before the beginning of the 21st century the Russian Federation Armed Forces were equipped with missiles manufactured by the Reshetnev enterprise. These missiles were considered to be the most reliable and advanced. The implementation of Yangel’s projects proved OKB-10 to be ready for further work on the creation of space technology. Since then the Siberian enterprise has been recognized as a satellite manufacturer and at present it is Russia’s leading satellite manufacturing company.

Информационные спутниковые системы