Baikonur – The World’s First and Largest Cosmodrome
The city of Baikonur rests in the desert of Kazakhstan, and is the world’s first and largest cosmodrome. Located in the middle of the Kazakh Steppe, it is a place of immense significance for the history of space exploration. Baikonur has been the launch site for some of the most famous space missions in history, and is still used for a variety of launches today.
History of Baikonur
Baikonur was chosen as the site of the Soviet Union’s first launch pad due to its location on the flat steppes of Kazakhstan. The city was established in 1955 and was known as Tyuratam until 1995. It was a tightly guarded secret, and was often referred to as “the city that didn’t exist”. Its mission was to launch the first satellite into space, and it was the site of Sputnik 1’s launch, which marked the beginning of the space race.
Today, Baikonur remains one of the most important launch sites in the world. It is currently leased to the Russian government and is still used for a variety of launches, from satellites to human spaceflight. It is also home to the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center, where cosmonauts are trained for space missions.
What to Do in Baikonur
Baikonur is a fascinating destination for those interested in space and science. Visitors to the city can explore the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center or take a tour of the Baikonur Cosmodrome, where they can see the launch pads and other sites associated with the city’s history.
Visitors to Baikonur can also explore the city itself, which offers a unique glimpse into Soviet-era life. There are a variety of museums and historical sites to explore, as well as a number of restaurants and shops.
Getting to Baikonur
Baikonur is located in the middle of the Kazakh Steppe, so it can be difficult to get to. The easiest way to get to Baikonur is by plane, as there are regular flights from Moscow and other major cities. It is also possible to take a train from Moscow or other cities in Kazakhstan, although this journey can be long and arduous.
Visitors to Baikonur must obtain a visa in order to visit. This can be done through the Kazakh embassy in your country of residence.
Conclusion
Baikonur is a unique destination that is steeped in history and has played an important role in the history of space exploration. It is a fascinating destination for those interested in science and space, and offers a unique glimpse into Soviet-era life. Despite its remote location, getting to Baikonur is relatively easy and visitors must obtain a visa in order to visit. Whether you’re a space enthusiast or just looking for a unique travel experience, Baikonur is sure to be an unforgettable experience.