Successful Baiterek launch opens new space opportunities for Kazakhstan - ministryThe successful launch of the Soyuz-5/Sunkar rocket from the Baiterek launch complex shows that Kazakhstan now has the necessary infrastructure and expertise to fully participate in the global space industry, the country’s Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development said Friday.“The launch proves that Kazakhstan has put in place all the necessary elements for full participation in the space industry, including its own launch infrastructure, national satellite projects and highly qualified engineering personnel,” the ministry said in a statement.The ministry stressed that the successful liftoff opens “new opportunities in space exploration,” adding that the project will create jobs and expand the country’s ability to deploy a wide range of satellites into orbit.Preparations for the launch followed strict technical regulations, with priority placed on the smooth operation of all systems.“More than 40 technical systems are used to operate the new space rocket complex. Their effective coordination was ensured throughout the full testing cycle,” the statement said.The ministry also noted that the Baiterek complex and the Soyuz-5/Sunkar rocket use non-toxic propellants, kerosene and liquid oxygen, representing a more environmentally sustainable future for spaceflight. The project, it added, will advance scientific development and strengthen the country’s industrial potential.The first test launch of the medium-class Soyuz-5/Sunkar rocket from the Baiterek complex took place on April 30 at 11 p.m. local time in Astana.The Baiterek project at the Baikonur Cosmodrom, designed to support Soyuz-5 launches, is the largest joint space initiative between Russia and Kazakhstan. Under the agreement, Russia is building the new Soyuz-5 rocket, while Kazakhstan is responsible for the ground infrastructure and modernization of the Baiterek complex.Construction timelines for the complex were repeatedly delayed due to the preparation of technical documents, with work initially expected to begin in late 2022. The first Soyuz-5 launch from Baiterek was originally planned by the end of 2023, but the partners later agreed to push back the start of flight testing. (ICE ALMATY)

Fonte notizia: INTERFAX