# Soyuz-2.1b

> version of the Soyuz-2 rocket

**Wikidata**: [Q12780081](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q12780081)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/soyuz-2-1b

## Summary
Soyuz-2.1b is a version of the Soyuz-2 rocket family, developed by Russia. It is a subclass of the Soyuz-2 rocket and is powered by the RD-0124 engine. The Soyuz-2.1b is notable for its use of the Fregat-MT upper stage, which enhances its payload capabilities.

## Key Facts
- Part of the Soyuz-2 rocket family, a Russian series of rockets.
- Powered by the RD-0124 engine.
- Uses the Fregat-MT upper stage.
- Country of origin: Russia.
- Aliases: Soyuz ST-B, Soyuz-2-1B.
- Instance of: rocket model.
- Subclass of: Soyuz-2.
- Sitelink count: 1.
- Commons category: Soyuz-2.1b.
- TASS reference ID: 18483521.
- Wikipedia languages: commons.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the Soyuz-2.1b rocket used for?
A: The Soyuz-2.1b is used for launching satellites and other payloads into space. It is part of the Soyuz-2 rocket family, which is a Russian series of rockets.

### Q: What engine powers the Soyuz-2.1b?
A: The Soyuz-2.1b is powered by the RD-0124 engine, which is a key component of its propulsion system.

### Q: What is the significance of the Fregat-MT upper stage in the Soyuz-2.1b?
A: The Fregat-MT upper stage enhances the Soyuz-2.1b's payload capabilities, allowing it to deploy multiple satellites or perform complex orbital maneuvers.

### Q: Who developed the Soyuz-2.1b rocket?
A: The Soyuz-2.1b was developed by Russia, as part of the broader Soyuz-2 rocket program.

### Q: What are the main aliases for the Soyuz-2.1b?
A: The Soyuz-2.1b is also known as Soyuz ST-B and Soyuz-2-1B.

## Why It Matters
The Soyuz-2.1b plays a crucial role in Russia's space program, providing reliable and versatile launch capabilities. As part of the Soyuz-2 family, it is designed to carry a variety of payloads, including satellites and spacecraft, to different orbits. The integration of the Fregat-MT upper stage further extends its utility, enabling missions that require precise orbital insertion or multiple satellite deployments. This rocket has been instrumental in supporting various space missions, including the deployment of telecommunications satellites and scientific payloads. Its development and continued use reflect Russia's commitment to maintaining a robust space launch infrastructure, which is essential for both national and international space endeavors.

## Notable For
- Being a subclass of the Soyuz-2 rocket family, known for its reliability and versatility.
- Utilizing the Fregat-MT upper stage, which enhances its payload capabilities.
- Powered by the RD-0124 engine, contributing to its efficient and effective performance.
- Supporting a wide range of space missions, including satellite deployments and scientific research.
- Maintaining Russia's presence in the global space launch market, providing competitive and reliable launch services.

## Body
### Overview
The Soyuz-2.1b is a variant of the Soyuz-2 rocket, a series of Russian launch vehicles developed to replace the earlier Soyuz-U and Soyuz-FG rockets. It is designed to carry payloads into various orbits, including low Earth orbit (LEO), medium Earth orbit (MEO), and geostationary transfer orbit (GTO).

### Design and Specifications
The Soyuz-2.1b features a three-stage configuration, with the first stage consisting of four RD-107A engines, the second stage powered by a single RD-0124 engine, and the third stage utilizing the RD-0110 engine. The Fregat-MT upper stage is optional and can be added to the third stage to provide additional maneuvering capabilities.

### Launch History
The Soyuz-2.1b has been used for numerous successful launches, including the deployment of satellites for telecommunications, scientific research, and Earth observation. Its reliability and flexibility have made it a preferred choice for both government and commercial space missions.

### Related Missions
The Soyuz-2.1b has been involved in various notable missions, such as the launch of the O3b FM2 satellite, which is part of the O3b satellite constellation designed for telecommunications and data backhaul. It has also supported the deployment of other satellites, including Kosmos-2510, UKube 1, and Lucky-7.

### Significance in Space Exploration
The Soyuz-2.1b has contributed to Russia's space exploration efforts by providing a reliable and versatile launch platform. Its ability to carry a variety of payloads to different orbits has supported a wide range of scientific and commercial missions, including the deployment of satellites for global communications and Earth observation.

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