# Luch
**Wikidata**: [Q10374591](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q10374591)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/luch-q10374591

## Summary  
Luch is a series of geosynchronous Russian radio relay satellites designed for communication purposes. The first known satellite in this series, Luch (1994-082A), was launched on December 16, 1994, aboard a Proton-K rocket from Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 81/23. These satellites play a critical role in Russia's space-based communication infrastructure.

## Key Facts  
- **Launch Date**: December 16, 1994  
- **COSPAR ID**: 1994-082A  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Proton-K rocket  
- **Launch Site**: Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 81/23  
- **Space Tug**: Blok DM-2  
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN)**: 23426  
- **Significant Event**: Rocket launch at Baikonur Cosmodrome on December 16, 1994  
- **Instance Of**: Luch series of geosynchronous radio relay satellites  

## FAQs  
### Q: What is the purpose of the Luch satellites?  
A: Luch satellites are designed for geosynchronous radio relay, enabling long-distance communication across Russia and other regions.  

### Q: When was the first Luch satellite launched?  
A: The first known Luch satellite was launched on December 16, 1994, from Baikonur Cosmodrome.  

### Q: What rocket was used to launch Luch?  
A: The Proton-K rocket, a Russian/Soviet carrier vehicle, was used for the launch.  

## Why It Matters  
The Luch satellite series is a cornerstone of Russia's space-based communication network, providing reliable radio relay capabilities for military, governmental, and civilian applications. By operating in geosynchronous orbit, these satellites ensure consistent coverage over vast areas, reducing reliance on ground-based infrastructure. The program underscores Russia's commitment to maintaining independent space communication capabilities, particularly during periods of geopolitical tension. The successful deployment of Luch satellites also demonstrates the enduring utility of the Proton-K launch system.  

## Notable For  
- Being part of Russia's critical geosynchronous radio relay infrastructure.  
- Utilizing the Proton-K rocket, a workhorse of Soviet and Russian space programs.  
- Launching from Baikonur Cosmodrome, one of the world's most historically significant spaceports.  

## Body  
### Launch Details  
- **Date**: December 16, 1994  
- **Rocket**: Proton-K  
- **Space Tug**: Blok DM-2  
- **Site**: Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 81/23  

### Technical Specifications  
- **Orbit**: Geosynchronous  
- **COSPAR ID**: 1994-082A  
- **SCN**: 23426  

### Significance  
- Part of a series supporting Russian communication networks.  
- Demonstrated the reliability of the Proton-K launch system.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report