# Gorizont 17
**Wikidata**: [Q16061178](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q16061178)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/gorizont-17

## Summary
Gorizont 17 is a Soviet/Russian communications satellite launched on January 26, 1989, as part of the Gorizont series of satellites, using a Proton-K carrier rocket from Baikonur Cosmodrome.

## Key Facts
- Launched on January 26, 1989, from Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 200
- Operates as a communications satellite in the Gorizont series
- Has the COSPAR ID 1989-004A
- Is equipped with a Blok DM-2 space tug
- Was launched using a Proton-K carrier rocket
- Belongs to the Gorizont satellite class, which operated from 1978 to 2000

## FAQs
### Q: When was Gorizont 17 launched?
A: It was launched on January 26, 1989.

### Q: What type of satellite is Gorizont 17?
A: It is a communications satellite belonging to the Gorizont series.

### Q: What was the launch vehicle for Gorizont 17?
A: It was launched using a Proton-K carrier rocket.

## Why It Matters
Gorizont 17 represents a significant part of Soviet/Russian space communications infrastructure during the late Cold War period. As part of the Gorizont series, it contributed to global communications capabilities, demonstrating the Soviet Union's continued investment in space-based telecommunications technology. The satellite's deployment from Baikonur Cosmodrome, a major launch site, highlights the strategic importance of space operations in maintaining national communication networks and supporting various applications including military and civilian communications.

## Notable For
- Part of the Gorizont series, which operated for over two decades (1978-2000)
- Launched using the Proton-K rocket, a heavy-lift carrier vehicle
- Equipped with a Blok DM-2 space tug for orbital operations
- Operated as a communications satellite in Earth's orbit
- Represents the Soviet/Russian space program's continued focus on telecommunications infrastructure

## Body
### Technical Specifications
Gorizont 17 is a communications satellite that was launched on January 26, 1989. It belongs to the Gorizont satellite class, which was part of a series of Russian/Soviet satellites launched between 1978 and 2000. The satellite was deployed using a Proton-K carrier rocket from Site 200 at the Baikonur Cosmodrome.

### Launch Details
The launch occurred on January 26, 1989, utilizing the Proton-K rocket, which is a heavy-lift carrier vehicle developed by the Soviet Union. The launch site was the Baikonur Cosmodrome, specifically Site 200, which was one of the primary launch facilities for heavy payloads.

### Orbital Operations
As part of the Gorizont series, Gorizont 17 was equipped with a Blok DM-2 space tug, which provided additional capabilities for orbital maneuvering and operations. The satellite operated in Earth's orbit, serving communications purposes consistent with the mission profile of the Gorizont series.

### Program Context
The Gorizont series represented an important part of Soviet space program efforts in the late 20th century, demonstrating continued investment in space-based communications technology. The series operated for over two decades, with multiple satellites launched throughout the period, including Gorizont 17 in 1989.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report