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Today in History: Soviet Buran spacecraft launches on historic flight

11/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On November 15, 1988, the Soviet spacecraft Buran made its inaugural and only uncrewed flight, showcasing its design similar to NASA's Space Shuttle. This mission marked a significant achievement in the Soviet space program, demonstrating the capabilities of the Buran-class orbiters, which utilized the powerful Energia rocket for launch.

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Story summary

On November 15, 1988, the Soviet spacecraft Buran made its inaugural and only uncrewed flight, showcasing its design similar to NASA's Space Shuttle. This mission marked a significant achievement in the Soviet space program, demonstrating the capabilities of the Buran-class orbiters, which utilized the powerful Energia rocket for launch.