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Russia's New Satellite System, Rassvet, Challenges Starlink

Russia's new satellite system, Rassvet, is set to challenge Elon Musk's Starlink. With a €48.5bn investment, it's a significant step in Russia's commercial space race.

,   and  Administrator
1 min read
In this picture, we see the missiles. At the bottom, we see the boards in white color. In the left...
In this picture, we see the missiles. At the bottom, we see the boards in white color. In the left bottom, we see a poster in red and grey color is pasted on the board. We see some text printed on the poster. At the top, it looks like the roof and it is in white color.

Russia's space ambitions are expanding with the launch of a new satellite system, Rassvet. Already boasting six craft in orbit, Rassvet is part of a broader programme valued at 4.4 trillion rubles (€48.5bn) and backed by President Vladimir Putin. The system, developed by a new player in the Russian space sector, Gonets, aims to compete with Elon Musk's Starlink.

Rassvet's business model mirrors Starlink's, with the company owning the constellation and selling services directly to customers. The first batch of 16 satellites is set to launch by the end of 2025, with commercial services commencing in 2027. The satellites are manufactured by Byuro 1440, a newcomer in the Russian space sector established in 2020 with a workforce of 2000. Rassvet has secured 20 Soyuz rockets to initiate the launch of its constellation.

Russia's plans include deploying 900 satellites into low Earth orbit, matching Starlink's ambition to provide global entry.

With Rassvet's progress, Russia is solidifying its position in the commercial space race. The system's launch and expansion will not only enhance Russia's space capabilities but also challenge existing global players like Starlink.

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