Baikonur is a cosmodrome associated with the era of space exploration and is located in Kazakhstan. It occupies an area of 6717 square kilometers in the steppe zone on the left bank of the Syr Darya River. Geographically, it is situated 200 kilometers east of the Aral Sea and about 600 kilometers northwest of the capital of Uzbekistan. This unique complex was built in 1955 and has since become the starting point for many important space missions, including the launch of the first artificial satellite and the first human space flight.
How to get to Baikonur on your own? To visit the cosmodrome, watch rocket launches, and explore this significant space facility, tourists have several options. The most convenient way is to fly to the nearest large city, Kyzylorda. From there, you can travel by train or bus, which takes about five hours. Alternatively, you can take a train from neighboring countries, which will take several days but offers the chance to enjoy the picturesque views of Kazakhstan. To visit Baikonur, a pre-issued entry visa is required, as the territory is under the jurisdiction of the Russian Federation.
The reason for the popularity of Baikonur Cosmodrome
The cosmodrome is known worldwide for its historical significance and continued contribution to space exploration. Its popularity is due to several factors:
Historical Significance: It was from here that Sputnik-1 and the Vostok-1 spacecraft with Yuri Gagarin on board were launched, opening the era of space flight. The history of cosmonautics is closely connected with this place, making it an important site for anyone interested in science and technology.
Ongoing Activity: Baikonur remains one of the world's major cosmodromes, from which spacecraft and rockets, including manned missions to the International Space Station, are regularly launched.
The opportunity to visit and see where the most important missions in the history of space began attracts tourists from all over the world. They are eager to reach the cosmodrome by any means. Tours of the cosmodrome include visits to launch sites, museums, and meetings with real astronauts.
What to do at the cosmodrome as a tourist
Tourists at Baikonur can enjoy a variety of interesting activities and excursions, including:
A unique opportunity to visit the places from where legendary space missions and rockets were launched. Excursions include exploring various launch complexes, such as the famous "Gagarin Launch."
The cosmodrome has several museums, including the Museum of Cosmonautics, which presents exhibits related to the history of space flights, models of rockets and spacecraft, and personal belongings of cosmonauts.
Those interested can interact with professionals working at the cosmodrome, learn about current projects and future plans.
Tourists can take a tour around the cosmodrome, seeing the residential areas and infrastructure that support the work of the cosmodrome.
Visiting museums, meeting scientists and cosmonauts, and sightseeing tours are just a small part of what awaits those who travel to the cosmodrome to broaden their horizons.
Gateway to space: how to see a rocket launch in person
How can you see a rocket launch from Baikonur? This is an unforgettable spectacle that attracts many tourists. To witness the launch in person, you need to book a tour in advance, which includes a visit to the launch site during preparation and the launch itself. Tours are organized by specialized travel companies that offer various packages, including transportation, accommodation, and a guide.
Tourists can watch the launch from a safe distance, which provides a stunning view of the rocket taking off and a sense of involvement in this grand event. During the observation, commentary and explanations from experts enhance the experience, making it both exciting and educational.
Planned launches for summer and fall 2024
If you are wondering what to see in Baikonur, it's worth checking upcoming announcements before traveling to Kazakhstan. You can do this on the website.
Several important events are planned for the summer and fall of 2024:
August 12-16, 2024: Progress MS-28 — a true summer event in the steppe.
August 28-September 2, 2024: Launch tour of the Bion-M spacecraft similar to "Soyuz," but designed for animals. The vehicle can remain in orbit and provide each passenger with the necessary supplies for a month, after which they are returned to Earth for scientific study.
September 8-12, 2024: Soyuz MS-26. September is always a warm welcome at Baikonur.
November 17-22, 2024: Progress MS-29 — known for its cozy and comfortable environment.
December 2024: Launch of a 750-ton heavy-lift rocket, Proton-M.
March 2025: Manned mission to the ISS, sending the crew off to orbit.
Visiting Baikonur and observing the events at the station offers a unique opportunity to become part of the history of cosmonautics and gain unforgettable impressions of one of the most significant places on Earth.
Summary
If you are considering whether to visit Baikonur on your own, the answer is clear — you should. There is much to see and experience here. Where else will you have the chance to witness rockets being launched into space? And today, it is easy to reach this historically significant site.
