The Earth remote sensing satellite "Resurs-P" No. 3, which previously had one of its two solar panels not fully deployed, was launched from the intermediate orbit into a working orbit. This was reported by the Mission Control Center (MCC).

They clarified that the propulsion system of the Resurs-P spacecraft No. 3 was turned on at 17:00. 02 min. 46 sec. Moscow time and worked for about 70 seconds.

The message also states that currently the satellite’s onboard systems are functioning normally and allow solving all target tasks. A stable connection is maintained with Resurs-P, providing the necessary command and program information and receiving telemetry.

The orbit correction took place normally as part of the planned two-pulse maneuver. As a result of the impulse, the satellite's altitude increased by 200 km, which fully corresponds to the calculated values. The second corrective impulse is scheduled for March 20, 2016, the department specified.

The decision to carry out a planned correction of the spacecraft’s orbit was made by the Main Operational Control Group (GOGU) together with the spacecraft manufacturer, the Progress Rocket and Space Center.

As it became known earlier, after the launch of the Resurs-P satellite No. 3 into an intermediate orbit, an incomplete deployment of one of the solar panels of the device was recorded. It was noted that if the second battery panel does not open, the ability to operate the satellite will be limited.

The day before, an Interfax source in the rocket and space industry said that MCC specialists “shook” the satellite , but it did not help. The agency’s interlocutor said that it would be unwise to carry out maneuvers to transfer Resurs-P from an intermediate to a working orbit in a situation where the cause of the failure is unclear.

At the moment, GOGU and RCC “Progress” are analyzing the situation and developing measures to counter it, note the MCC.

The launch of the Resurs-P satellite was carried out on March 13 from the Baikonur Cosmodrome using the Soyuz-2.1b launch vehicle. Together with the previously launched spacecraft "Resurs-P" No. 1 and No. 2, as well as with ground-based information receiving points, "Resurs-P" No. 3 forms a single integrated surveillance system, which, according to Roscosmos, will significantly increase the efficiency of operation space constellation for remote sensing of the Earth in low-Earth orbit.

The Resurs-P satellite No. 3 with an unopened battery was launched into working orbit