GLONASSK

GLONASS-K is a generation of Russian navigation satellites designed for the GLONASS system. Developed by Information Satellite Systems Reshetnev and operated by Roscosmos, the GLONASS-K family represents the modernization of the GLONASS constellation. The satellites are intended to replace older GLONASS-M spacecraft as they reach end of life and to enhance overall coverage, accuracy, and reliability for civilian and military users.

Key features include a new, lighter spacecraft bus with extended service life, greater payload flexibility, and improved power efficiency. The design supports modernized navigation signals on the L1 and L2 bands and includes enhanced anti-jamming capabilities and autonomous health monitoring to improve system resilience.

In orbit, GLONASS-K satellites operate in Medium Earth Orbit with an altitude of about 19,000 kilometers and an orbital inclination of approximately 64.8 degrees, forming part of a global network used for positioning, timing, and navigation services.

Status and role: As part of Russia's modernization program, GLONASS-K is deployed alongside existing GLONASS satellites to maintain and extend global coverage. The program contributes to the resilience of Russia's independent satellite navigation capability and aims to strengthen the overall robustness of the GLONASS constellation.

Impact: The GLONASS-K generation provides improved accuracy and reliability for end users and is designed to be interoperable with other global navigation satellite systems, supporting a wide range of civilian applications and dual-use government operations.