Is Russia's rival to Starlink failing? Here's what we know.
Russia's Bureau 1440 is struggling to deploy its Rassvet satellite network, intended to compete with SpaceX's Starlink. Reports indicate that several satellites have suffered failures and are failing to reach their intended operational orbits.
Why it matters
The failure of the Rassvet program underscores the technical difficulties of building a global satellite internet constellation and impacts Russia's military and civilian connectivity goals.
An assessment Is Russia’s rival to Starlink failing? Here’s what we know. At least three of the first 32 Rassvet satellites likely suffered outright failures, and more may be in trouble.
8 A view of one of Russia's Rassvet satellites moments after separating from its Soyuz launch vehicle in March. Credit: Bureau 1440 A view of one of Russia's Rassvet satellites moments after separating from its Soyuz launch vehicle in March. Credit: Bureau 1440 Text settings Story text Size Small Standard Large Width * Standard Wide Links Standard Orange * Subscribers only Learn more Minimize to nav Russia’s attempt to replicate SpaceX’s Starlink satellite network seems to be moving as slowly as the front lines in eastern Ukraine.
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