Roscosmos announced the final preparations at Baikonur for the launch of the second of four Arktika-M meteorological satellites exploring the Arctic region from a highly elliptical orbit. Russia created such a series of satellites first in the world.
The first Arktika-M went into space to its target orbit in February 2021. The quartet of satellites developed by NPO Lavochkin will provide observation of the polar region from different angles.
Thus, scientists will be able to detail ultra-short-term weather forecasts, promptly monitor dangerous natural phenomena and emergencies, and also increase the accuracy of identifying clouds over snow and ice cover and determining their characteristics.
In addition, as part of the international COSPAS-SARSAT search and rescue system, Arktika-M will be able to more effectively and quickly transmit signals to rescue services about the location of ships and aircraft in distress.