From The Archives: Soyuz 9 On The Launchpad

In this issue, the Soyuz space vehicle receives final preparation for launch at the Russian space center Tyuratam. 

The photo was taken during darkness prior to liftoff at about 11 p.m. local time. The mission was the first crewed flight to be launched at night by the Soviets.

See page 21 for the story about cosmonauts in quarantine after the Soyuz landing, and pages 46-48 for more photos of Soyuz 9 being readied for launch. 

See the front cover and read the full June 29, 1970, issue. 

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