French and German Detained at Baikonur Cosmodrome for Attempting to Photograph Rocket

Two foreign nationals were apprehended at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan for attempting to photograph a rocket-carrier without authorization.

The incident occurred on July 4, 2023, when the two individuals, a French citizen and a German citizen, were discovered taking pictures of the Soyuz-2.1a rocket, which was scheduled to launch a Progress MS-21 cargo spacecraft to the International Space Station (ISS).

The two individuals were reportedly part of a group of tourists who had been visiting the cosmodrome. However, they allegedly strayed from the designated tour area and approached the rocket without permission.

Security personnel at the cosmodrome noticed the two individuals taking pictures and detained them. The individuals were then questioned by the police.

The incident is currently under investigation. The two individuals could face charges of violating the rules of the cosmodrome or even espionage.

The Baikonur Cosmodrome is a major space launch facility located in Kazakhstan. It is leased to Russia, which uses it to launch its manned and unmanned spacecraft.

The cosmodrome is a highly secure facility, and unauthorized photography is strictly prohibited. This is because the cosmodrome is used to launch military satellites and other sensitive payloads.

The detention of the two foreign nationals is a reminder of the importance of adhering to the rules and regulations of the Baikonur Cosmodrome.