English: The Russian Proton rocket is the tallest rocket in routine use. First deployed in 1965, the rocket stands typically 40 meters tall, can carry unusually heavy payloads into space, and maintains a high record of reliability, being configured to launch satellites into orbit, to carry modules to space stations, and to carry people. Previous Proton payloads include include Iridium, GRANAT, Mir modules and others. The Proton frequently launched modules that docked with the Mir Space Station. Pictured above on 12 July 2000, a Proton-K rocket launches the Zvezda service module which became the third major component to be added to the International Space Station. The Proton is launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakstan.