Russia loses second satellite in Starlink competitor project as orbit fails

Russia has lost a second satellite from its planned alternative to SpaceX's Starlink network after the spacecraft fell back into Earth's atmosphere just three months after launch.

The Satellite Failure

The Rassvet-3 No. 17 satellite reentered the atmosphere on October 30 after apparently failing to raise its orbit following a July 19 launch. Developed by Russia's Bureau 1440, the spacecraft burned up before reaching its intended operational altitude. This follows a similar failure in June when another Rassvet satellite met the same fate. Despite these setbacks, approximately 30 satellites remain in orbit with most reaching an intermediate altitude of roughly 500 kilometers.

Goals and Challenges

President Vladimir Putin wants Russia to reduce its reliance on foreign communications infrastructure and ensure good internet access in remote regions, especially during wars and sanctions. According to Vietnam.vn, Putin recently praised SpaceX founder Elon Musk as a true genius while noting that Starlink operates thousands of satellites while Russia is only taking its first steps. Building a large-scale satellite network has proven difficult due to lower experience levels and sanctions making important parts hard to get.

Context

Low-Earth orbit satellite constellations require precise engine burns and complex guidance to reach and maintain operational heights. Building such networks involves significant technical hurdles, especially for nations developing alternative infrastructure under economic pressure.