# Mikhailo Lomonosov

> Russian artificial satellite launched in 2016

**Wikidata**: [Q18786081](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q18786081)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mikhailo_Lomonosov_(satellite))  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/mikhailo-lomonosov

## Summary  
Mikhailo Lomonosov is a Russian artificial satellite launched in 2016, designed primarily as a space telescope for astrophysical observations. It was developed by Lomonosov Moscow State University in collaboration with the All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Electromechanics.

## Key Facts  
- Launched on April 28, 2016, from Vostochny Cosmodrome Site 1S using a Soyuz-2.1a rocket  
- Mass: 450 kilograms  
- Operates in a Sun-synchronous orbit as an Earth-orbiting artificial satellite and space telescope  
- Named after Mikhail Lomonosov, the renowned Russian polymath  
- Managed by Lomonosov Moscow State University; manufactured in partnership with the All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Electromechanics  
- COSPAR ID: 2016-026A; NSSDCA ID: LOMNSOV  
- Includes the Ultra-Fast Flash Observatory Pathfinder among its components  
- Official website: [http://lomonosov.sinp.msu.ru/en/](http://lomonosov.sinp.msu.ru/en/)  

## FAQs  
### Q: What is the Mikhailo Lomonosov satellite used for?  
A: The satellite functions as a space telescope, conducting astrophysical observations, including studies of transient events like gamma-ray bursts via its onboard instruments such as the Ultra-Fast Flash Observatory Pathfinder.

### Q: Who built the Mikhailo Lomonosov satellite?  
A: It was developed by Lomonosov Moscow State University in cooperation with the All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Electromechanics.

### Q: When was the Mikhailo Lomonosov satellite launched?  
A: The satellite was launched on April 28, 2016, from the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russia using a Soyuz-2.1a launch vehicle.

## Why It Matters  
The Mikhailo Lomonosov satellite represents a significant contribution to Russian space science, combining academic research with practical orbital observation capabilities. As a university-led mission, it underscores the growing role of academic institutions in space exploration. Its instrumentation supports high-energy astrophysics research, particularly through rapid response systems for cosmic flash detection. By operating in a Sun-synchronous orbit, it ensures consistent lighting conditions for Earth observation and stable thermal environments for sensitive instruments. The project also symbolizes the legacy of Mikhail Lomonosov, linking modern scientific achievement with historical Russian intellectual heritage.

## Notable For  
- First major university-operated Russian space telescope dedicated to astrophysics  
- Hosts the Ultra-Fast Flash Observatory Pathfinder, enabling rapid gamma-ray burst follow-ups  
- Launched from Russia’s new Vostochny Cosmodrome, marking early missions from this site  
- Combines educational and research objectives under one mission profile  
- Named in honor of Mikhail Lomonosov, highlighting cultural and scientific continuity  

## Body  

### Mission Overview  
The Mikhailo Lomonosov satellite is an Earth-orbiting space telescope developed to observe transient astrophysical phenomena. It was launched into a Sun-synchronous orbit to maintain optimal operational conditions for long-term scientific data collection.

### Development and Operators  
- **Developer**: Lomonosov Moscow State University  
- **Manufacturer**: Collaboration between Lomonosov Moscow State University and the All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Electromechanics (founded in 1941)  
- **Operator**: Lomonosov Moscow State University  

### Launch Details  
- **Launch Date**: April 28, 2016  
- **Launch Site**: Vostochny Cosmodrome, Site 1S  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Soyuz-2.1a  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2016-026A  
- **NSSDCA ID**: LOMNSOV  

### Physical and Orbital Characteristics  
- **Mass**: 450 kg  
- **Orbit Type**: Sun-synchronous orbit  
- **Satellite Class**: Artificial satellite of the Earth, Space telescope  

### Instruments and Payload  
- **Ultra-Fast Flash Observatory Pathfinder** – A key payload aimed at detecting and analyzing gamma-ray bursts with high temporal resolution  

### Naming and Cultural Significance  
Named after **Mikhail Lomonosov**, an 18th-century Russian scientist and polymath, the satellite reflects national pride in scientific advancement rooted in historical legacy.

### Online Presence  
Official Website: [http://lomonosov.sinp.msu.ru/en/](http://lomonosov.sinp.msu.ru/en/)  
Wikipedia Languages Available: German, English, French, Galician, Hebrew, Latvian, Macedonian, Polish, Russian

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report