A routine crew launch to the International Space Station has caused an unexpected setback for future missions. The arrival of three new astronauts marked a success, but the launch left a critical piece of infrastructure in ruins.
The Russian-U.S. mission aboard the Soyuz MS-28 spacecraft reached the ISS, bringing Sergey Kud-Sverchkov, Sergey Mikaev, and NASA’s Chris Williams to their new home in orbit. However, this launch has potentially compromised the future of crewed flights to the ISS from Russian soil.
And here’s where it gets controversial: The launch platform at Baikonur Cosmodrome’s Site 31/6 in Kazakhstan, the only one used for these missions, was severely damaged. This site has been a cornerstone of the Russian space program since 1961, facilitating over 400 launches, including all Russian human and cargo flights to the ISS since 2020. The platform is essential for booster preparation, and its sudden unavailability raises concerns.
Roscosmos confirmed that the launch site was inspected as per standard procedure, revealing the extent of the damage. The platform’s collapse could significantly impact the upcoming launch schedule, especially with a cargo resupply mission planned for December.
The big question is: Can the damage be repaired swiftly, or will Russia need to rely on alternative launch sites for future ISS missions? The answer remains uncertain, leaving space enthusiasts and professionals alike eagerly awaiting further updates on this developing story.