🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 129 (from laksa143)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa129.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical, ml_categories_json AS ml_categories_json, ml_types_json AS ml_types_json, ml_intent_types_json AS ml_intent_types_json, meta_language AS meta_language, attrs_author AS attrs_author, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(attrs_publish_time), 0) AS attrs_publish_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(attrs_original_publish_time), 0) AS attrs_original_publish_time, ifNull(attrs_is_republished, 0) AS attrs_is_republished, ifNull(attrs_nr_words, 0) AS attrs_nr_words, ifNull(attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words, 0) AS attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words, ifNull(body_ext_links_number, 0) AS body_ext_links_number, ifNull(body_int_links_number, 0) AS body_int_links_number, ifNull(meta_nofollow, 0) AS meta_nofollow, ifNull(meta_noarchive, 0) AS meta_noarchive, ifNull(props_was_rendered, 0) AS props_was_rendered, ifNull(src_redirect, \'\') AS src_redirect, ifNull(download_time_msec, 0) AS download_time_msec, ifNull(download_ttfb_msec, 0) AS download_ttfb_msec, ifNull(download_size, 0) AS download_size FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/","crawl_time":1776929829,"first_indexed_time":1642222477,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"org,nti!www,\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/ s443","src_root_hash":"9233997703569894329","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Baikonur Cosmodrome | Global Space Launch Facility","meta_descriptions":["The Baikonur Cosmodrome remains the world’s most active spaceport, serving missions from Russia and global partners."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Skip to navigation [n]\nSkip to content [c]\nSkip to footer [f]\nPrograms and Projects\nPriorities\nOur People\nCareers\nDiversity, Equity, and Inclusion at NTI\nAnnual Reports and Financials\nThis content was created and maintained as part of a past project. As of April 6 2026, it is no longer being updated.\nBackground\nBaikonur Cosmodrome is the location of the first Soviet triumphs in space, and today, remains the world’s busiest space launch facility serving the Russian, American, European and other national and commercial space programs.\n1\nConstruction of the facility began on the Kazakh steppe in 1955. Originally, it was a testing ground for the Soviet ICBM program.\n2\nThe name Baikonur was chosen purposefully to deceive the West as to the true location of the then top secret facility. The Cosmodrome was built adjacent to Tyuratam, Kazakhstan; while the small mining town of Baikonur is located 200 miles south of the facility.\n3\nThe world’s first ICBM, the R-7 (service version deployed in 1959: R-7A Semyorka, 8K71; (NATO : SS-6 Sapwood), was first successfully launched from Baikonur Cosmodrome on 21 August 1957.\n4\nThe Soviet Union launched Sputnik-1, the world’s first artificial satellite, from a modified R-7 at Baikonur on 4 October 1957 and the first man in space, Yuri Gagarin, on Vostok-3KA rocket on 12 April 1961.\n5\nOver time the facility expanded to include numerous launch pads, silos, fuel production and storage facilities, research, technical and support facilities, and two airports all connected by the world’s largest industrial railroad. At various times, operational ICBMs, including some R-36 (NATO: SS-18) and UR-100 ICBM (NATO: SS-19) based systems were located at the site.\n6\nThe last missile deployed at Baikonur was the R-36 Orb (Fractional Orbital Bombardment System).\n7\nThe Soviet Union deployed 18 R-36 Orbs at Baikonur from 1969 to 1983 when the SALT-II treaty prohibited the weapon.\n8\nThough no missiles were deployed at Baikonur after 1983, the facility continued to operate as a military research facility and testing ground in addition to its role in the Soviet space program until 1992.\n9\nUpon the breakup of the Soviet Union, Kazakhstan inherited the facility, but it continued to operate under the auspices of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and de facto control of the Russian Federal Space Agency (Roscosmos) and Russian Strategic Rocket Forces. With the help of funding and assistance provided by the United States Government through the Cooperative Threat Reduction (CTR) program, most ICBM missile silos at the site were decommissioned by 1995.\n10\nA few former missile silos were converted, along with the R-36 and UR-100N ICBMs, to be used for civilian space launches.\nCurrent Status\nToday several rocket systems for manned spaceflight, military and commercial space launches still operate at Baikonur including the Proton, Soyuz, Zenit, Rokot, and Dnieper rocket programs.\n11\nAll Russian rockets used in manned space missions and International Space Station (ISS) flights are launched from Baikonur. Additionally, all Russian geostationary satellites are launched from Baikonur.\n12\nToday, Baikonur consists of 9 launch complexes with 15 launch pads for rockets, 4 for missile testing, 11 assembly buildings, one nitrogen\/oxygen plant and numerous command and control centers, and logistical sites.\n13\nIn 2005, Russia and Kazakhstan agreed on a contract for Russia to rent the facility until 2050.\n14\nRussia’s military presence at the site formally ended in 2005, but it is possible that Russia may still use this site for future military missile testing. In 2008, an aging Russian UR-100N ICBM was test launched from Baikonur as part of an ICBM extension program.\n15\nShould Russia extend the life of its current ICBMs even further, it is likely that performance tests would be conducted at Baikonur. While now primarily a space launch facility, many of the missile development and testing facilities at the site remain intact and reactivation is possible.\nSources\n“Cosmodrome Baikonur,” Russian Federal Space Agency RosCosmos, 2013, www.federalspace.ru.\nAnatoly Zak, “Baikonur- Origin,” Russian Space Web, 30 June 2012, www.russianspaceweb.com.\nAmiko Kauderer, “Space Station Assembly- Baikonur Cosmodrome,” NASA, 23 October 2010, www.nasa.gov.\n“Infographic: World’s First Intercontinental Ballistic Missile,” RIA Novosti, 16 May 2012, www.rianovosti.com.\nФедеральное космическое агентство – Роскосмос [Federal Cosmic Agency], “История советской, российской космонавтики [History of Russian and Soviet Cosmonauts],” 25 November 2013, www.federalspace.ru.\nAnatoly Zak, “Baikonur- R-36 Facilities,” Russian Space Web, 30 June 2012, www.russianspaceweb.com.\nMiroslav Gyűrösi, “The Soviet Fractional Orbital Bombardment System Program,” Air Power Australia, April 2012, www.ausairpower.net.\nThe United States Department of State, “SALT II: Treaty between the United States of America and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics on the Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms, Together with Agreed Statements and Common Understandings regarding the Treaty,” Vienna, 18 June 1979.\nAnatoly Zak, “Road to Baikonur,” Russian Space Web, 25 November 2013, www.russianspaceweb.com.\nUS Department of Defense, “CTR Assistance – What It Does: Kazakhstan,” www.dod.mil.\nRussian Federal Space Agency, “Космодром Байконур [Cosmodrome Baikonur],” www.federalspace.ru.\nNASA, Amiko Kauderer, “Space Station Assembly- Baikonur Cosmodrome,” 23 October 2010, www.nasa.gov.\n“Cosmodrome Baikonur,” Russian Federal Space Agency RosCosmos, 2013, www.federalspace.ru.\n“Kazakhstan Finally Ratifies Baikonur Rental Deal with Russia,” RIA Novosti, 9 April 2010, http:\/\/en.rian.ru.\nOleg Shchedrov, “Russia Test-Fires Old Missile to Extend Lifespan,” Reuters, 22 October 2008, www.reuters.com.","attrs_markdown":"- [News](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/news\/)\n- [Experts](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/experts\/)\n- [Events](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/events\/)\n- [Analysis](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/analysis\/)\n  - 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[Priorities](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/about\/priorities\/)\n  - [Our People](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/about\/who-we-are\/)\n  - [Careers](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/about\/work-with-us\/)\n  - [Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at NTI](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/about\/diversity-equity-and-inclusion-at-nti\/)\n  - [Annual Reports and Financials](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/about\/financials\/)\n- [Get Updates](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/get-updates\/)\n- [Donate](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/donate)\n\n- [News](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/news\/)\n- [Experts](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/experts\/)\n- [Events](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/events\/)\n- [Analysis](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/analysis\/)\n- [Blog](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/risky-business\/)\n\n![]()\n\n![](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/about-e1632775837978.jpg)\n\n- [Programs and Projects](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/about\/programs-projects\/)\n- [Priorities](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/about\/priorities\/)\n- [Our People](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/about\/who-we-are\/)\n- [Careers](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/about\/work-with-us\/)\n- [Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at NTI](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/about\/diversity-equity-and-inclusion-at-nti\/)\n- [Annual Reports and Financials](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/about\/financials\/)\n\nThis content was created and maintained as part of a past project. As of April 6 2026, it is no longer being updated.\n\n[![Flag for Kazakhstan](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/wp-content\/themes\/nti\/assets\/images\/country-flags\/svg\/kz.svg) **Kazakhstan**](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/countries\/kazakhstan\/)\n\n# Baikonur Cosmodrome\n\n- **Location**   \n  Baikonur\n- **Type**   \n  Missile-Testing\n- **Facility Status**   \n  Operational\n\n## Background\nBaikonur Cosmodrome is the location of the first Soviet triumphs in space, and today, remains the world’s busiest space launch facility serving the Russian, American, European and other national and commercial space programs. [1](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f1) Construction of the facility began on the Kazakh steppe in 1955. Originally, it was a testing ground for the Soviet ICBM program. [2](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f2) The name Baikonur was chosen purposefully to deceive the West as to the true location of the then top secret facility. The Cosmodrome was built adjacent to Tyuratam, Kazakhstan; while the small mining town of Baikonur is located 200 miles south of the facility. [3](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f3) The world’s first ICBM, the R-7 (service version deployed in 1959: R-7A Semyorka, 8K71; (NATO : SS-6 Sapwood), was first successfully launched from Baikonur Cosmodrome on 21 August 1957. [4](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f4) The Soviet Union launched Sputnik-1, the world’s first artificial satellite, from a modified R-7 at Baikonur on 4 October 1957 and the first man in space, Yuri Gagarin, on Vostok-3KA rocket on 12 April 1961. [5](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f5)\n\nOver time the facility expanded to include numerous launch pads, silos, fuel production and storage facilities, research, technical and support facilities, and two airports all connected by the world’s largest industrial railroad. At various times, operational ICBMs, including some R-36 (NATO: SS-18) and UR-100 ICBM (NATO: SS-19) based systems were located at the site. [6](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f6) The last missile deployed at Baikonur was the R-36 Orb (Fractional Orbital Bombardment System). [7](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f7) The Soviet Union deployed 18 R-36 Orbs at Baikonur from 1969 to 1983 when the SALT-II treaty prohibited the weapon. [8](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f8)\n\nThough no missiles were deployed at Baikonur after 1983, the facility continued to operate as a military research facility and testing ground in addition to its role in the Soviet space program until 1992. [9](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f9) Upon the breakup of the Soviet Union, Kazakhstan inherited the facility, but it continued to operate under the auspices of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and de facto control of the Russian Federal Space Agency (Roscosmos) and Russian Strategic Rocket Forces. With the help of funding and assistance provided by the United States Government through the Cooperative Threat Reduction (CTR) program, most ICBM missile silos at the site were decommissioned by 1995. [10](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f10) A few former missile silos were converted, along with the R-36 and UR-100N ICBMs, to be used for civilian space launches.\n## Current Status\nToday several rocket systems for manned spaceflight, military and commercial space launches still operate at Baikonur including the Proton, Soyuz, Zenit, Rokot, and Dnieper rocket programs. [11](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f11) All Russian rockets used in manned space missions and International Space Station (ISS) flights are launched from Baikonur. Additionally, all Russian geostationary satellites are launched from Baikonur. [12](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f12) Today, Baikonur consists of 9 launch complexes with 15 launch pads for rockets, 4 for missile testing, 11 assembly buildings, one nitrogen\/oxygen plant and numerous command and control centers, and logistical sites. [13](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f13)\n\nIn 2005, Russia and Kazakhstan agreed on a contract for Russia to rent the facility until 2050. [14](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f14)\n\nRussia’s military presence at the site formally ended in 2005, but it is possible that Russia may still use this site for future military missile testing. In 2008, an aging Russian UR-100N ICBM was test launched from Baikonur as part of an ICBM extension program. [15](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f15) Should Russia extend the life of its current ICBMs even further, it is likely that performance tests would be conducted at Baikonur. While now primarily a space launch facility, many of the missile development and testing facilities at the site remain intact and reactivation is possible.\n\n## Sources\n1. “Cosmodrome Baikonur,” Russian Federal Space Agency RosCosmos, 2013, www.federalspace.ru.\n2. Anatoly Zak, “Baikonur- Origin,” Russian Space Web, 30 June 2012, www.russianspaceweb.com.\n3. Amiko Kauderer, “Space Station Assembly- Baikonur Cosmodrome,” NASA, 23 October 2010, www.nasa.gov.\n4. “Infographic: World’s First Intercontinental Ballistic Missile,” RIA Novosti, 16 May 2012, www.rianovosti.com.\n5. Федеральное космическое агентство – Роскосмос \\[Federal Cosmic Agency\\], “История советской, российской космонавтики \\[History of Russian and Soviet Cosmonauts\\],” 25 November 2013, www.federalspace.ru.\n6. Anatoly Zak, “Baikonur- R-36 Facilities,” Russian Space Web, 30 June 2012, www.russianspaceweb.com.\n7. Miroslav Gyűrösi, “The Soviet Fractional Orbital Bombardment System Program,” Air Power Australia, April 2012, www.ausairpower.net.\n8. The United States Department of State, “SALT II: Treaty between the United States of America and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics on the Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms, Together with Agreed Statements and Common Understandings regarding the Treaty,” Vienna, 18 June 1979.\n9. Anatoly Zak, “Road to Baikonur,” Russian Space Web, 25 November 2013, www.russianspaceweb.com.\n10. US Department of Defense, “CTR Assistance – What It Does: Kazakhstan,” www.dod.mil.\n11. Russian Federal Space Agency, “Космодром Байконур \\[Cosmodrome Baikonur\\],” www.federalspace.ru.\n12. NASA, Amiko Kauderer, “Space Station Assembly- Baikonur Cosmodrome,” 23 October 2010, www.nasa.gov.\n13. “Cosmodrome Baikonur,” Russian Federal Space Agency RosCosmos, 2013, www.federalspace.ru.\n14. “Kazakhstan Finally Ratifies Baikonur Rental Deal with Russia,” RIA Novosti, 9 April 2010, http:\/\/en.rian.ru.\n15. Oleg Shchedrov, “Russia Test-Fires Old Missile to Extend Lifespan,” Reuters, 22 October 2008, www.reuters.com.\n\n![]() ![](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/cns-logo-trans-500x153.png) This material is produced independently for NTI by the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of and has not been independently verified by NTI or its directors, officers, employees, or agents. Copyright 2026.\n\n[![The Nuclear Threat Initiative](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/wp-content\/themes\/nti\/assets\/images\/logo-white-tagline.svg)](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/)\n\n## Build a Brighter Future\nJoin us to address threats and build a safer world\n\n- [Get Updates](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/get-updates\/)\n- [Donate](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/donate\/)\n\n- [Bluesky](https:\/\/bsky.app\/profile\/nti.org)\n- [Twitter](https:\/\/twitter.com\/NTI_WMD)\n- [Threads](https:\/\/www.threads.net\/@nti_wmd)\n- [Instagram](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/nti_wmd\/)\n- [LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/the-nuclear-threat-initiative\/)\n- [Youtube](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/nuclearthreatinitiative)\n- [Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/nti.org\/)\n\n- [Home](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/)\n- [Nuclear](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/area\/nuclear\/)\n- [Biological](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/area\/biological\/)\n- [AI & Tech](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/area\/ai-tech\/)\n- [Get Involved](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/get-involved\/)\n- [Impact](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/impact\/)\n- [About](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/about\/)\n\n- [News](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/news\/)\n- [Experts](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/experts\/)\n- [Events](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/events\/)\n- [Analysis](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/analysis\/)\n- [Blog](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/risky-business\/)\n\nNuclear Threat Initiative  \n 1776 Eye Street, NW  \n Suite 1000  \n Washington, DC 20006  \n   \n (202) 296-4810  \n   \n EIN: 52-2289435\n\n©NTI 2026\n\n- [Legal](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/legal)\n- [Contact](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/about\/contact)\n\n[Close](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/)\n\n## My Resources\n\n### Subscribe to NTI\nSign up for regular updates on innovative, real-world solutions to existential threats.\n\n[{ location = 'https:\/\/www.nti.org\/get-updates\/' }, 300);\"\\>Get Updates](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/get-updates\/)","attrs_readable_markdown":"- [Skip to navigation \\[n\\]](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#nav)\n- [Skip to content \\[c\\]](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#content)\n- [Skip to footer \\[f\\]](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#footer)\n\n![](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/about-e1632775837978.jpg)\n\n- [Programs and Projects](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/about\/programs-projects\/)\n- [Priorities](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/about\/priorities\/)\n- [Our People](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/about\/who-we-are\/)\n- [Careers](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/about\/work-with-us\/)\n- [Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at NTI](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/about\/diversity-equity-and-inclusion-at-nti\/)\n- [Annual Reports and Financials](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/about\/financials\/)\n\nThis content was created and maintained as part of a past project. As of April 6 2026, it is no longer being updated.\n\nBackground\n\nBaikonur Cosmodrome is the location of the first Soviet triumphs in space, and today, remains the world’s busiest space launch facility serving the Russian, American, European and other national and commercial space programs. [1](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f1) Construction of the facility began on the Kazakh steppe in 1955. Originally, it was a testing ground for the Soviet ICBM program. [2](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f2) The name Baikonur was chosen purposefully to deceive the West as to the true location of the then top secret facility. The Cosmodrome was built adjacent to Tyuratam, Kazakhstan; while the small mining town of Baikonur is located 200 miles south of the facility. [3](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f3) The world’s first ICBM, the R-7 (service version deployed in 1959: R-7A Semyorka, 8K71; (NATO : SS-6 Sapwood), was first successfully launched from Baikonur Cosmodrome on 21 August 1957. [4](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f4) The Soviet Union launched Sputnik-1, the world’s first artificial satellite, from a modified R-7 at Baikonur on 4 October 1957 and the first man in space, Yuri Gagarin, on Vostok-3KA rocket on 12 April 1961. [5](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f5)\n\nOver time the facility expanded to include numerous launch pads, silos, fuel production and storage facilities, research, technical and support facilities, and two airports all connected by the world’s largest industrial railroad. At various times, operational ICBMs, including some R-36 (NATO: SS-18) and UR-100 ICBM (NATO: SS-19) based systems were located at the site. [6](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f6) The last missile deployed at Baikonur was the R-36 Orb (Fractional Orbital Bombardment System). [7](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f7) The Soviet Union deployed 18 R-36 Orbs at Baikonur from 1969 to 1983 when the SALT-II treaty prohibited the weapon. [8](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f8)\n\nThough no missiles were deployed at Baikonur after 1983, the facility continued to operate as a military research facility and testing ground in addition to its role in the Soviet space program until 1992. [9](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f9) Upon the breakup of the Soviet Union, Kazakhstan inherited the facility, but it continued to operate under the auspices of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and de facto control of the Russian Federal Space Agency (Roscosmos) and Russian Strategic Rocket Forces. With the help of funding and assistance provided by the United States Government through the Cooperative Threat Reduction (CTR) program, most ICBM missile silos at the site were decommissioned by 1995. [10](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f10) A few former missile silos were converted, along with the R-36 and UR-100N ICBMs, to be used for civilian space launches.\n\nCurrent Status\n\nToday several rocket systems for manned spaceflight, military and commercial space launches still operate at Baikonur including the Proton, Soyuz, Zenit, Rokot, and Dnieper rocket programs. [11](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f11) All Russian rockets used in manned space missions and International Space Station (ISS) flights are launched from Baikonur. Additionally, all Russian geostationary satellites are launched from Baikonur. [12](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f12) Today, Baikonur consists of 9 launch complexes with 15 launch pads for rockets, 4 for missile testing, 11 assembly buildings, one nitrogen\/oxygen plant and numerous command and control centers, and logistical sites. [13](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f13)\n\nIn 2005, Russia and Kazakhstan agreed on a contract for Russia to rent the facility until 2050. [14](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f14)\n\nRussia’s military presence at the site formally ended in 2005, but it is possible that Russia may still use this site for future military missile testing. In 2008, an aging Russian UR-100N ICBM was test launched from Baikonur as part of an ICBM extension program. [15](https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/baikonur-cosmodrome\/#f15) Should Russia extend the life of its current ICBMs even further, it is likely that performance tests would be conducted at Baikonur. While now primarily a space launch facility, many of the missile development and testing facilities at the site remain intact and reactivation is possible.\n\n## Sources\n1. “Cosmodrome Baikonur,” Russian Federal Space Agency RosCosmos, 2013, www.federalspace.ru.\n2. Anatoly Zak, “Baikonur- Origin,” Russian Space Web, 30 June 2012, www.russianspaceweb.com.\n3. Amiko Kauderer, “Space Station Assembly- Baikonur Cosmodrome,” NASA, 23 October 2010, www.nasa.gov.\n4. “Infographic: World’s First Intercontinental Ballistic Missile,” RIA Novosti, 16 May 2012, www.rianovosti.com.\n5. Федеральное космическое агентство – Роскосмос \\[Federal Cosmic Agency\\], “История советской, российской космонавтики \\[History of Russian and Soviet Cosmonauts\\],” 25 November 2013, www.federalspace.ru.\n6. Anatoly Zak, “Baikonur- R-36 Facilities,” Russian Space Web, 30 June 2012, www.russianspaceweb.com.\n7. Miroslav Gyűrösi, “The Soviet Fractional Orbital Bombardment System Program,” Air Power Australia, April 2012, www.ausairpower.net.\n8. The United States Department of State, “SALT II: Treaty between the United States of America and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics on the Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms, Together with Agreed Statements and Common Understandings regarding the Treaty,” Vienna, 18 June 1979.\n9. Anatoly Zak, “Road to Baikonur,” Russian Space Web, 25 November 2013, www.russianspaceweb.com.\n10. US Department of Defense, “CTR Assistance – What It Does: Kazakhstan,” www.dod.mil.\n11. Russian Federal Space Agency, “Космодром Байконур \\[Cosmodrome Baikonur\\],” www.federalspace.ru.\n12. NASA, Amiko Kauderer, “Space Station Assembly- Baikonur Cosmodrome,” 23 October 2010, www.nasa.gov.\n13. “Cosmodrome Baikonur,” Russian Federal Space Agency RosCosmos, 2013, www.federalspace.ru.\n14. “Kazakhstan Finally Ratifies Baikonur Rental Deal with Russia,” RIA Novosti, 9 April 2010, http:\/\/en.rian.ru.\n15. Oleg Shchedrov, “Russia Test-Fires Old Missile to Extend Lifespan,” Reuters, 22 October 2008, www.reuters.com.","meta_canonical":null,"ml_categories_json":"{\"\/Science\":971,\"\/Science\/Astronomy\":892}","ml_types_json":"{\"\/Article\":803,\"\/Article\/Wiki\":312}","ml_intent_types_json":"{\"Informational\":999}","meta_language":"en","attrs_author":null,"attrs_publish_time":1751000542,"attrs_original_publish_time":1642222477,"attrs_is_republished":1,"attrs_nr_words":"1071","attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words":"861","body_ext_links_number":9,"body_int_links_number":44,"meta_nofollow":0,"meta_noarchive":0,"props_was_rendered":0,"src_redirect":"","download_time_msec":1040,"download_ttfb_msec":1037,"download_size":12200}

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The Baikonur Cosmodrome remains the world’s most active spaceport, serving missions from Russia and global partners.

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Skip to navigation [n] Skip to content [c] Skip to footer [f] Programs and Projects Priorities Our People Careers Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at NTI Annual Reports and Financials This content was created and maintained as part of a past project. As of April 6 2026, it is no longer being updated. Background Baikonur Cosmodrome is the location of the first Soviet triumphs in space, and today, remains the world’s busiest space launch facility serving the Russian, American, European and other national and commercial space programs. 1 Construction of the facility began on the Kazakh steppe in 1955. Originally, it was a testing ground for the Soviet ICBM program. 2 The name Baikonur was chosen purposefully to deceive the West as to the true location of the then top secret facility. The Cosmodrome was built adjacent to Tyuratam, Kazakhstan; while the small mining town of Baikonur is located 200 miles south of the facility. 3 The world’s first ICBM, the R-7 (service version deployed in 1959: R-7A Semyorka, 8K71; (NATO : SS-6 Sapwood), was first successfully launched from Baikonur Cosmodrome on 21 August 1957. 4 The Soviet Union launched Sputnik-1, the world’s first artificial satellite, from a modified R-7 at Baikonur on 4 October 1957 and the first man in space, Yuri Gagarin, on Vostok-3KA rocket on 12 April 1961. 5 Over time the facility expanded to include numerous launch pads, silos, fuel production and storage facilities, research, technical and support facilities, and two airports all connected by the world’s largest industrial railroad. At various times, operational ICBMs, including some R-36 (NATO: SS-18) and UR-100 ICBM (NATO: SS-19) based systems were located at the site. 6 The last missile deployed at Baikonur was the R-36 Orb (Fractional Orbital Bombardment System). 7 The Soviet Union deployed 18 R-36 Orbs at Baikonur from 1969 to 1983 when the SALT-II treaty prohibited the weapon. 8 Though no missiles were deployed at Baikonur after 1983, the facility continued to operate as a military research facility and testing ground in addition to its role in the Soviet space program until 1992. 9 Upon the breakup of the Soviet Union, Kazakhstan inherited the facility, but it continued to operate under the auspices of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and de facto control of the Russian Federal Space Agency (Roscosmos) and Russian Strategic Rocket Forces. With the help of funding and assistance provided by the United States Government through the Cooperative Threat Reduction (CTR) program, most ICBM missile silos at the site were decommissioned by 1995. 10 A few former missile silos were converted, along with the R-36 and UR-100N ICBMs, to be used for civilian space launches. Current Status Today several rocket systems for manned spaceflight, military and commercial space launches still operate at Baikonur including the Proton, Soyuz, Zenit, Rokot, and Dnieper rocket programs. 11 All Russian rockets used in manned space missions and International Space Station (ISS) flights are launched from Baikonur. Additionally, all Russian geostationary satellites are launched from Baikonur. 12 Today, Baikonur consists of 9 launch complexes with 15 launch pads for rockets, 4 for missile testing, 11 assembly buildings, one nitrogen/oxygen plant and numerous command and control centers, and logistical sites. 13 In 2005, Russia and Kazakhstan agreed on a contract for Russia to rent the facility until 2050. 14 Russia’s military presence at the site formally ended in 2005, but it is possible that Russia may still use this site for future military missile testing. In 2008, an aging Russian UR-100N ICBM was test launched from Baikonur as part of an ICBM extension program. 15 Should Russia extend the life of its current ICBMs even further, it is likely that performance tests would be conducted at Baikonur. While now primarily a space launch facility, many of the missile development and testing facilities at the site remain intact and reactivation is possible. Sources “Cosmodrome Baikonur,” Russian Federal Space Agency RosCosmos, 2013, www.federalspace.ru. Anatoly Zak, “Baikonur- Origin,” Russian Space Web, 30 June 2012, www.russianspaceweb.com. Amiko Kauderer, “Space Station Assembly- Baikonur Cosmodrome,” NASA, 23 October 2010, www.nasa.gov. “Infographic: World’s First Intercontinental Ballistic Missile,” RIA Novosti, 16 May 2012, www.rianovosti.com. Федеральное космическое агентство – Роскосмос [Federal Cosmic Agency], “История советской, российской космонавтики [History of Russian and Soviet Cosmonauts],” 25 November 2013, www.federalspace.ru. Anatoly Zak, “Baikonur- R-36 Facilities,” Russian Space Web, 30 June 2012, www.russianspaceweb.com. Miroslav Gyűrösi, “The Soviet Fractional Orbital Bombardment System Program,” Air Power Australia, April 2012, www.ausairpower.net. The United States Department of State, “SALT II: Treaty between the United States of America and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics on the Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms, Together with Agreed Statements and Common Understandings regarding the Treaty,” Vienna, 18 June 1979. Anatoly Zak, “Road to Baikonur,” Russian Space Web, 25 November 2013, www.russianspaceweb.com. US Department of Defense, “CTR Assistance – What It Does: Kazakhstan,” www.dod.mil. Russian Federal Space Agency, “Космодром Байконур [Cosmodrome Baikonur],” www.federalspace.ru. NASA, Amiko Kauderer, “Space Station Assembly- Baikonur Cosmodrome,” 23 October 2010, www.nasa.gov. “Cosmodrome Baikonur,” Russian Federal Space Agency RosCosmos, 2013, www.federalspace.ru. “Kazakhstan Finally Ratifies Baikonur Rental Deal with Russia,” RIA Novosti, 9 April 2010, http://en.rian.ru. Oleg Shchedrov, “Russia Test-Fires Old Missile to Extend Lifespan,” Reuters, 22 October 2008, www.reuters.com.

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As of April 6 2026, it is no longer being updated. [![Flag for Kazakhstan](https://www.nti.org/wp-content/themes/nti/assets/images/country-flags/svg/kz.svg) **Kazakhstan**](https://www.nti.org/countries/kazakhstan/) # Baikonur Cosmodrome - **Location** Baikonur - **Type** Missile-Testing - **Facility Status** Operational ## Background Baikonur Cosmodrome is the location of the first Soviet triumphs in space, and today, remains the world’s busiest space launch facility serving the Russian, American, European and other national and commercial space programs. [1](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f1) Construction of the facility began on the Kazakh steppe in 1955. Originally, it was a testing ground for the Soviet ICBM program. [2](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f2) The name Baikonur was chosen purposefully to deceive the West as to the true location of the then top secret facility. The Cosmodrome was built adjacent to Tyuratam, Kazakhstan; while the small mining town of Baikonur is located 200 miles south of the facility. [3](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f3) The world’s first ICBM, the R-7 (service version deployed in 1959: R-7A Semyorka, 8K71; (NATO : SS-6 Sapwood), was first successfully launched from Baikonur Cosmodrome on 21 August 1957. [4](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f4) The Soviet Union launched Sputnik-1, the world’s first artificial satellite, from a modified R-7 at Baikonur on 4 October 1957 and the first man in space, Yuri Gagarin, on Vostok-3KA rocket on 12 April 1961. [5](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f5) Over time the facility expanded to include numerous launch pads, silos, fuel production and storage facilities, research, technical and support facilities, and two airports all connected by the world’s largest industrial railroad. At various times, operational ICBMs, including some R-36 (NATO: SS-18) and UR-100 ICBM (NATO: SS-19) based systems were located at the site. [6](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f6) The last missile deployed at Baikonur was the R-36 Orb (Fractional Orbital Bombardment System). [7](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f7) The Soviet Union deployed 18 R-36 Orbs at Baikonur from 1969 to 1983 when the SALT-II treaty prohibited the weapon. [8](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f8) Though no missiles were deployed at Baikonur after 1983, the facility continued to operate as a military research facility and testing ground in addition to its role in the Soviet space program until 1992. [9](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f9) Upon the breakup of the Soviet Union, Kazakhstan inherited the facility, but it continued to operate under the auspices of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and de facto control of the Russian Federal Space Agency (Roscosmos) and Russian Strategic Rocket Forces. With the help of funding and assistance provided by the United States Government through the Cooperative Threat Reduction (CTR) program, most ICBM missile silos at the site were decommissioned by 1995. [10](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f10) A few former missile silos were converted, along with the R-36 and UR-100N ICBMs, to be used for civilian space launches. ## Current Status Today several rocket systems for manned spaceflight, military and commercial space launches still operate at Baikonur including the Proton, Soyuz, Zenit, Rokot, and Dnieper rocket programs. [11](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f11) All Russian rockets used in manned space missions and International Space Station (ISS) flights are launched from Baikonur. Additionally, all Russian geostationary satellites are launched from Baikonur. [12](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f12) Today, Baikonur consists of 9 launch complexes with 15 launch pads for rockets, 4 for missile testing, 11 assembly buildings, one nitrogen/oxygen plant and numerous command and control centers, and logistical sites. [13](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f13) In 2005, Russia and Kazakhstan agreed on a contract for Russia to rent the facility until 2050. [14](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f14) Russia’s military presence at the site formally ended in 2005, but it is possible that Russia may still use this site for future military missile testing. In 2008, an aging Russian UR-100N ICBM was test launched from Baikonur as part of an ICBM extension program. [15](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f15) Should Russia extend the life of its current ICBMs even further, it is likely that performance tests would be conducted at Baikonur. While now primarily a space launch facility, many of the missile development and testing facilities at the site remain intact and reactivation is possible. ## Sources 1. “Cosmodrome Baikonur,” Russian Federal Space Agency RosCosmos, 2013, www.federalspace.ru. 2. Anatoly Zak, “Baikonur- Origin,” Russian Space Web, 30 June 2012, www.russianspaceweb.com. 3. Amiko Kauderer, “Space Station Assembly- Baikonur Cosmodrome,” NASA, 23 October 2010, www.nasa.gov. 4. “Infographic: World’s First Intercontinental Ballistic Missile,” RIA Novosti, 16 May 2012, www.rianovosti.com. 5. Федеральное космическое агентство – Роскосмос \[Federal Cosmic Agency\], “История советской, российской космонавтики \[History of Russian and Soviet Cosmonauts\],” 25 November 2013, www.federalspace.ru. 6. Anatoly Zak, “Baikonur- R-36 Facilities,” Russian Space Web, 30 June 2012, www.russianspaceweb.com. 7. Miroslav Gyűrösi, “The Soviet Fractional Orbital Bombardment System Program,” Air Power Australia, April 2012, www.ausairpower.net. 8. The United States Department of State, “SALT II: Treaty between the United States of America and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics on the Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms, Together with Agreed Statements and Common Understandings regarding the Treaty,” Vienna, 18 June 1979. 9. Anatoly Zak, “Road to Baikonur,” Russian Space Web, 25 November 2013, www.russianspaceweb.com. 10. US Department of Defense, “CTR Assistance – What It Does: Kazakhstan,” www.dod.mil. 11. Russian Federal Space Agency, “Космодром Байконур \[Cosmodrome Baikonur\],” www.federalspace.ru. 12. NASA, Amiko Kauderer, “Space Station Assembly- Baikonur Cosmodrome,” 23 October 2010, www.nasa.gov. 13. “Cosmodrome Baikonur,” Russian Federal Space Agency RosCosmos, 2013, www.federalspace.ru. 14. “Kazakhstan Finally Ratifies Baikonur Rental Deal with Russia,” RIA Novosti, 9 April 2010, http://en.rian.ru. 15. Oleg Shchedrov, “Russia Test-Fires Old Missile to Extend Lifespan,” Reuters, 22 October 2008, www.reuters.com. ![]() ![](https://www.nti.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/cns-logo-trans-500x153.png) This material is produced independently for NTI by the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of and has not been independently verified by NTI or its directors, officers, employees, or agents. Copyright 2026. 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- [Skip to navigation \[n\]](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#nav) - [Skip to content \[c\]](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#content) - [Skip to footer \[f\]](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#footer) ![](https://www.nti.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/about-e1632775837978.jpg) - [Programs and Projects](https://www.nti.org/about/programs-projects/) - [Priorities](https://www.nti.org/about/priorities/) - [Our People](https://www.nti.org/about/who-we-are/) - [Careers](https://www.nti.org/about/work-with-us/) - [Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at NTI](https://www.nti.org/about/diversity-equity-and-inclusion-at-nti/) - [Annual Reports and Financials](https://www.nti.org/about/financials/) This content was created and maintained as part of a past project. As of April 6 2026, it is no longer being updated. Background Baikonur Cosmodrome is the location of the first Soviet triumphs in space, and today, remains the world’s busiest space launch facility serving the Russian, American, European and other national and commercial space programs. [1](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f1) Construction of the facility began on the Kazakh steppe in 1955. Originally, it was a testing ground for the Soviet ICBM program. [2](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f2) The name Baikonur was chosen purposefully to deceive the West as to the true location of the then top secret facility. The Cosmodrome was built adjacent to Tyuratam, Kazakhstan; while the small mining town of Baikonur is located 200 miles south of the facility. [3](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f3) The world’s first ICBM, the R-7 (service version deployed in 1959: R-7A Semyorka, 8K71; (NATO : SS-6 Sapwood), was first successfully launched from Baikonur Cosmodrome on 21 August 1957. [4](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f4) The Soviet Union launched Sputnik-1, the world’s first artificial satellite, from a modified R-7 at Baikonur on 4 October 1957 and the first man in space, Yuri Gagarin, on Vostok-3KA rocket on 12 April 1961. [5](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f5) Over time the facility expanded to include numerous launch pads, silos, fuel production and storage facilities, research, technical and support facilities, and two airports all connected by the world’s largest industrial railroad. At various times, operational ICBMs, including some R-36 (NATO: SS-18) and UR-100 ICBM (NATO: SS-19) based systems were located at the site. [6](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f6) The last missile deployed at Baikonur was the R-36 Orb (Fractional Orbital Bombardment System). [7](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f7) The Soviet Union deployed 18 R-36 Orbs at Baikonur from 1969 to 1983 when the SALT-II treaty prohibited the weapon. [8](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f8) Though no missiles were deployed at Baikonur after 1983, the facility continued to operate as a military research facility and testing ground in addition to its role in the Soviet space program until 1992. [9](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f9) Upon the breakup of the Soviet Union, Kazakhstan inherited the facility, but it continued to operate under the auspices of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and de facto control of the Russian Federal Space Agency (Roscosmos) and Russian Strategic Rocket Forces. With the help of funding and assistance provided by the United States Government through the Cooperative Threat Reduction (CTR) program, most ICBM missile silos at the site were decommissioned by 1995. [10](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f10) A few former missile silos were converted, along with the R-36 and UR-100N ICBMs, to be used for civilian space launches. Current Status Today several rocket systems for manned spaceflight, military and commercial space launches still operate at Baikonur including the Proton, Soyuz, Zenit, Rokot, and Dnieper rocket programs. [11](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f11) All Russian rockets used in manned space missions and International Space Station (ISS) flights are launched from Baikonur. Additionally, all Russian geostationary satellites are launched from Baikonur. [12](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f12) Today, Baikonur consists of 9 launch complexes with 15 launch pads for rockets, 4 for missile testing, 11 assembly buildings, one nitrogen/oxygen plant and numerous command and control centers, and logistical sites. [13](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f13) In 2005, Russia and Kazakhstan agreed on a contract for Russia to rent the facility until 2050. [14](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f14) Russia’s military presence at the site formally ended in 2005, but it is possible that Russia may still use this site for future military missile testing. In 2008, an aging Russian UR-100N ICBM was test launched from Baikonur as part of an ICBM extension program. [15](https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/baikonur-cosmodrome/#f15) Should Russia extend the life of its current ICBMs even further, it is likely that performance tests would be conducted at Baikonur. While now primarily a space launch facility, many of the missile development and testing facilities at the site remain intact and reactivation is possible. ## Sources 1. “Cosmodrome Baikonur,” Russian Federal Space Agency RosCosmos, 2013, www.federalspace.ru. 2. Anatoly Zak, “Baikonur- Origin,” Russian Space Web, 30 June 2012, www.russianspaceweb.com. 3. Amiko Kauderer, “Space Station Assembly- Baikonur Cosmodrome,” NASA, 23 October 2010, www.nasa.gov. 4. “Infographic: World’s First Intercontinental Ballistic Missile,” RIA Novosti, 16 May 2012, www.rianovosti.com. 5. Федеральное космическое агентство – Роскосмос \[Federal Cosmic Agency\], “История советской, российской космонавтики \[History of Russian and Soviet Cosmonauts\],” 25 November 2013, www.federalspace.ru. 6. Anatoly Zak, “Baikonur- R-36 Facilities,” Russian Space Web, 30 June 2012, www.russianspaceweb.com. 7. Miroslav Gyűrösi, “The Soviet Fractional Orbital Bombardment System Program,” Air Power Australia, April 2012, www.ausairpower.net. 8. The United States Department of State, “SALT II: Treaty between the United States of America and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics on the Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms, Together with Agreed Statements and Common Understandings regarding the Treaty,” Vienna, 18 June 1979. 9. Anatoly Zak, “Road to Baikonur,” Russian Space Web, 25 November 2013, www.russianspaceweb.com. 10. US Department of Defense, “CTR Assistance – What It Does: Kazakhstan,” www.dod.mil. 11. Russian Federal Space Agency, “Космодром Байконур \[Cosmodrome Baikonur\],” www.federalspace.ru. 12. NASA, Amiko Kauderer, “Space Station Assembly- Baikonur Cosmodrome,” 23 October 2010, www.nasa.gov. 13. “Cosmodrome Baikonur,” Russian Federal Space Agency RosCosmos, 2013, www.federalspace.ru. 14. “Kazakhstan Finally Ratifies Baikonur Rental Deal with Russia,” RIA Novosti, 9 April 2010, http://en.rian.ru. 15. Oleg Shchedrov, “Russia Test-Fires Old Missile to Extend Lifespan,” Reuters, 22 October 2008, www.reuters.com.

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