[Satellite Today 02-11-09] The first successful Soyuz launch in 2009 has taken place today. Arianespace said, Feb. 10, that the Progress cargo spacecraft was accurately placed on the target orbit for another mission to the International Space Station. This was the first Soyuz family mission in 2009.
    With the introduction of Soyuz at the Guiana Space Center (CSG), this Russian medium-class launch vehicle will become a key part of the European launch vehicle fleet, together with the heavy-lift Ariane 5 and the lightweight Vega.