MOLNIYA 3-36, also known as Molniya-3, is a communication satellite launched on November 28, 1989, from PLMSC LC43/3 using the Molniya 8K78M launch vehicle. It has dimensions of 3.6 meters in length, 1.6 meters in diameter, and an 8.1 meter span. The satellite's dry mass is 1700 kg and its total launch mass was 1750 kg. Equipped with six deployable solar arrays generating 1000 W of power along with batteries for energy storage, MOLNIYA 3-36 operated under the ownership of UNKS/MSVYAZ and was manufactured by NPOPM. Its mission duration was designed to last three years. The satellite's shape is cylindrical with six panels and it carries a payload designated as Molniya-3 No. 46.