Rassvet satellite project faces major orbital deployment failures

Russia’s ambitious Rassvet satellite project, intended as a domestic alternative to SpaceX’s Starlink, is facing significant technical setbacks. Developed by Bureau 1440, the constellation aims to provide high-speed internet for both civilian and military use, particularly following the loss of Starlink access for Russian forces in Ukraine.

Data from orbital trackers and the Institute for the Study of War indicate that none of the 32 satellites launched to date have reached their intended operational altitude of approximately 800 to 870 kilometers. Most of the 16 satellites launched in July are stuck at much lower altitudes between 190 and 400 kilometers. At these heights, increased atmospheric drag threatens to significantly shorten their operational lifespan, with some units already showing signs of orbital decay or re-entering the atmosphere.

While some satellites from the initial March launch managed to stabilize around 500 kilometers, the second batch has struggled more extensively. The project faces additional challenges, including reliance on the limited Soyuz-2.1b launch vehicle and reported strikes on rocket production facilities. Despite these failures, Moscow maintains long-term goals to deploy hundreds of satellites by 2027 and over 900 by 2035.