# Meridian 1

> Russian communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q14277703](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q14277703)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meridian_1)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/meridian-1

## Summary
Meridian 1 is a Russian military communications satellite launched in 2006. It is part of the Meridian satellite series and was operated by the Russian Space Forces. The satellite was launched aboard a Soyuz-2.1a rocket from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: December 24, 2006  
- **Operator**: Russian Space Forces  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Soyuz-2.1a  
- **Launch Site**: Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 43/4  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2006-061A  
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN)**: 29668  
- **Type**: Meridian-class communications satellite  
- **Significant Event**: Rocket launch on December 24, 2006, from Plesetsk Cosmodrome  

## FAQs
### Q: What is the purpose of Meridian 1?  
A: Meridian 1 is a military communications satellite designed to provide secure communication services for the Russian armed forces.  

### Q: Who operates Meridian 1?  
A: The satellite is operated by the Russian Space Forces, a branch of the Russian military responsible for space operations.  

### Q: Where was Meridian 1 launched from?  
A: It was launched from Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 43/4, a major Russian spaceport located in the Arkhangelsk region.  

## Why It Matters  
Meridian 1 is significant as part of Russia's efforts to modernize its military communications infrastructure. The Meridian series replaces older Soviet-era satellites, enhancing secure and reliable communication for military operations. Its launch marked a step in Russia's broader strategy to maintain independent space-based communication capabilities, reducing reliance on foreign systems. The satellite's deployment also demonstrated the operational readiness of the Soyuz-2.1a rocket, a key vehicle in Russia's space program.  

## Notable For  
- **Military Communications**: Designed for secure military use, distinguishing it from civilian satellites.  
- **Soyuz-2.1a Launch**: One of the early missions of this rocket variant, showcasing its reliability.  
- **Plesetsk Cosmodrome**: Highlighted Russia's use of this northern launch site for polar and high-inclination orbits.  

## Body  
### Launch Details  
- **Date**: December 24, 2006  
- **Rocket**: Soyuz-2.1a  
- **Site**: Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 43/4  

### Satellite Specifications  
- **Class**: Meridian  
- **Operator**: Russian Space Forces  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2006-061A  
- **SCN**: 29668  

### Mission Context  
- Part of a series replacing older Molniya and Parus satellites.  
- Focused on providing secure communications for military and government use.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report