# Yamal 202

> Russian communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q2599225](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q2599225)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yamal_202)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/yamal-202

## Summary
Yamal 202 is a Russian communications satellite that serves as part of the Yamal satellite constellation. Launched on November 24, 2003, from the Baikonur Cosmodrome, it was operated by Gazprom Space Systems to provide communications services. The satellite had a launch mass of 1,330 kilograms and was eventually replaced by Yamal-601 in July 2019.

## Key Facts
- **Classification:** Instance of the Yamal communications satellite constellation.
- **Operator:** Gazprom Space Systems.
- **Launch Date:** November 24, 2003.
- **Launch Site:** Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 81/23.
- **Launch Vehicle:** Proton-K rocket, utilizing a Blok DM-2M space tug.
- **Mass:** 1,330 kilograms.
- **Power Consumption:** 2,800 watts.
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 28089.
- **COSPAR ID:** 2003-053A.
- **Successor:** Replaced by Yamal-601 on July 19, 2019.

## FAQs
### Q: When was Yamal 202 launched?
A: Yamal 202 was launched on November 24, 2003, from the Baikonur Cosmodrome.

### Q: Who operates the Yamal 202 satellite?
A: The satellite is operated by Gazprom Space Systems, a Russian satellite telecommunications company.

### Q: What rocket was used to launch Yamal 202?
A: The satellite was launched using a Proton-K carrier rocket equipped with a Blok DM-2M upper stage (space tug).

### Q: What replaced Yamal 202?
A: Yamal 202 was replaced by the Yamal-601 satellite, with the replacement occurring around July 19, 2019.

## Why It Matters
Yamal 202 represents a specific component of Russia's space-based communications infrastructure during the early 21st century. As part of the Yamal constellation, it contributed to the capabilities of Gazprom Space Systems, a major player in the Russian satellite operator market. The satellite's deployment via the heavy-lift Proton-K rocket highlights the logistical complexity and significant power requirements (2,800 watts) associated with communications satellites of this era. Its operational life, spanning from late 2003 until its replacement in 2019, demonstrates the long-term utility of such assets in geostationary orbit. The transition of services to Yamal-601 marks a technological upgrade in the constellation, reflecting the industry's move toward more modern platforms to maintain reliable communications coverage.

## Notable For
- Being a distinct unit within the broader **Yamal satellite constellation**, which supports Russian telecommunications.
- Utilizing the **Proton-K** launch vehicle, a historic Russian/Soviet carrier rocket, alongside the **Blok DM-2M** space tug for orbital insertion.
- Having a specific power consumption profile of **2,800 watts** and a mass of **1,330 kg**.
- Its specific launch site: **Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 81/23**.
- Being succeeded by **Yamal-601** in 2019, illustrating the lifecycle of communications satellites.

## Body

### Mission and Classification
Yamal 202 is classified as a Russian communications satellite (COSPAR ID: 2003-053A) and is an instance of the Yamal satellite class. It was operated by Gazprom Space Systems to facilitate communication services. The satellite is identifiable by its Satellite Catalog Number (SCN) 28089.

### Technical Specifications
The satellite possesses a documented mass of 1,330 kilograms. It operates with a power consumption of 2,800 watts. Official aliases for the entity include "Yamal 202."

### Launch Details
The satellite was successfully launched on November 24, 2003. The launch event took place at the Baikonur Cosmodrome, specifically at Site 81/23. The launch vehicle used was a Proton-K rocket. To achieve its final orbit, the launch configuration included a Blok DM-2M space tug.

### Operational Timeline
Yamal 202 served as an operational asset for roughly sixteen years. Significant records indicate a "rocket launch" event at the Baikonur Cosmodrome marking its deployment. Its operational role was concluded when it was replaced by Yamal-601 on July 19, 2019. The official website for the satellite is hosted by Gascom (Gazprom Space Systems).

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. [Source](https://www.gazprom-spacesystems.ru/ru/news/9059/)