Intersputnik communications systems

The legal and technical bases for "Intersputnik" were developed within the framework of cooperation among the socialist countries in the sphere of conquering and using outer space for peaceful purposes in the "Intercosmos" program. Its activities are based on respect of sovereignty, noninterference in internal affairs, mutual assistance, and mutual benefit. "Intercosmos" is an open intergovernmental organization in which any state may become a member that recognizes its aims and principles of activity, and undertakes the obligations which ensue from the agreement. Its ruling body is the Council, composed of one individual per number nation. The executive and administrative body is the Directorate. The "Intersputnik" system of communications consists of a space complex and Earth stations. Under lease agreements, Soviet artificial Earth satellites of the "Statsionar" type are used. They are located on a geocentric, circular orbit at points 14 degrees west longitude (Atlantic region) and 53 degrees east longitude (Indian region). The orbit lies in the plane of the equator at an altitude of about 36,000 km from the Earth's surface.