Russian Space Boosters | Soyuz-U

(Industry designation 11A511U, Western designation SL-4).

Design of that booster was conducted in 1970 - 1972 at Central Special Design Bureau (Samara City) under Designer General D. Kozlov supervision. Main reason for further development of "Soyuz" booster was unification of initial booster components.

"Soyuz-U" space booster production is held at CSDB-"Progress", Samara city. Distinction of Soyuz-U" and "Soyuz" is in control system and engines.

First test launch was conducted May 18th, 1973. Until August 9th, 2000 there were 702 launches, including 19 accidents and one semi-accident. "Soyuz-U" booster is used to launch on a Low Earth Orbits spacecrafts, including "Progress" cargo vehicle and "Soyuz" spacecraft.

Specification.

Launch weight....................................................313,000 kg
Thrust................................................................411,000 kg
Length.....................................................................51,1 m
Diameter of cluster....................................................10,3 m
Payload weight
Low Earth Orbit
With regular shroud................................................ 7,100 kg
With Soyuz spacecraft........................................... 6,850 kg
Propellant
All stages........................................................kerosene+O₂

Stage 1......................................................... engine RD-117
Stage 2......................................................... engine RD-118
Stage 3......................................................... engine RD-110