Polyot

11A59

Mission Profile

The Polyot (11A59) was a Soviet two-stage launch vehicle derived from the R-7 ICBM, distinguished by its unique capability to maneuver during both powered ascent and on-orbit operations, making it one of the earliest spacecraft with genuine orbital maneuvering capability. Standing 31 m tall with a 3 m diameter and a liftoff mass of 140 tonnes, it generated 2,780 kN of thrust and could deliver 2,400 kg to low Earth orbit. First flown in November 1963, the Polyot carried experimental Soviet maneuvering satellites that demonstrated the capability to track, intercept, and potentially destroy orbital objects, marking an early chapter in the development of anti-satellite weapons.