Russia's Rassvet satellite system operates at 500km altitude

Russia has confirmed that its Rassvet satellite communication system is operational at an altitude of 500km, despite failing to reach its originally intended orbit of 800km. Recent testing in the Nenets Autonomous Okrug demonstrated the network's functionality, allowing residents to access remote electronic voting systems via satellite data transmitted to ground terminals and local Wi-Fi.

Of the initial 16 satellites in the Rassvet constellation, 13 have reached an operational altitude of approximately 506km. Two satellites remain stuck at altitudes between 350km and 370km, and one has reportedly fallen, potentially due to a manufacturing defect. While the target orbit was officially listed as 80km, the current 500km deployment may indicate a last-minute strategic shift or intentional misinformation regarding future configurations. This altitude remains technically viable, as it is comparable to the operating range of SpaceX’s Starlink system.