Energia (launch vehicle)

Energia launch vehicle. The first stage consists of four side modules, the second stage is the central module. Engines of all modules fire at the moment of ignition. The payload is fastened to the side of the central module.

Energia launch vehicle. schematic

The Energia-M launch vehicle. It includes two first stage Energia side modules and a shortened central module with one engine. The payload is located under the nose fairing above the central module.

Preparation of the side modules for assembly of the Energia launch vehicle. The RD170 four-chamber engine 740 tons thrust near the ground; 806 tons in vacuum is mounted on the module.

Assembly of the Energia launch vehicle is performed in the assembly-test building of the cosmodrome. The picture shows the span of the building with the first stage modules and the assembled rocket package.

Transportation of the Energia-M launch vehicle is accomplished on the transport-erecting assembly of the Energia launch vehicle.

Transportation of the Energia launch vehicle

Transportation of the Energia launch vehicle with the Polus spacecraft on the external suspension to the versatile stand-start complex.

The Energia-M launch vehicle erected on the versatile stand-start complex.

The Energia launch vehicle at the versatile stand-start complex.

The Energia launch vehicle at the launching complex.

The Energia booster stand-start complex for performing firing tests of the launch vehicle and for launching.

Energia launch vehicle with the Polus spacecraft on the versatile stand-start complex being prepared for its first launch.

The first launch of the Energia launch vehicle took place at 21:30 Moscow time on May 15, 1987.