Nadezhda (satellite)
Nadezhda (Russian: Надежда, means Hope in English) is a civilian satellite navigation system and part of the international COSPAS-SARSAT search-and-rescue system.
Overview
The system consists of four satellites, each with a mass of 870kg, diameter of 2m and length of 3.5.[1] They orbit at an inclination of 89 degrees and an altitude of 1,000 km. The satellites carry the COSPAS-SARSAT transponder system, used by ships and aircraft in distress to summon help. Generally, the Nadezhda satellites will be able to get a fix on the ship's position with better than 5 km accuracy.[2]
First three satellites received designation Kosmos 1383 (1982), Kosmos 1447 (1983), Kosmos 1574 (1984).
The satellites were first introduced in 1989. A newer version, called Nadezhda-M is reportedly smaller than the original one. It is due to be replaced by the Sterkh satellites.[2] Nadezhda-M6 was launched on 28 June, 2001. Nadezhda-M7 was launched on 26 September, 2002.[2] The satellites are designed and manufactured by Production Corporation Polyot.