Russian Space Boosters | Proton

(Industry designation 8K82 UR-500, Western designation SL-9).

"Proton" space booster design was conducted under supervision of General Designer V. Chelomey starting 1961. Official Decision of Communist Party Politburo was issued on April 24th, 1962. Production of the booster conducted at Khrunichev Plant in Moscow. Initially the booster was designed as ICBM, but later that plan was changed.

First test launch of the booster was conducted June 16th; 1965.Until July 6th, 1966 there were 4 launches including one accident.

Specification.

Launch weight....................................................560,000 kg
Thrust................................................................900,000 kg
Length........................................................................37 m
Diameter of cluster......................................................7,4 m
Payload weight
Low Earth Orbit....................................................12,200 kg
Propellant
All stages..........................................................UDMH+NO

Stage 1....................................................... engine RD-253
Stage 2.................................................. 3 engines RD-210
.................................................................. engine RD-211