Full Breakdown
Successful Launch of Soyuz MS-28 Crew to International Space Station Amid Launch Pad Damage
11/28/2025, 11:33:47 PM
Soyuz MS-28 Launch Overview
On November 27, 2025, the Russian Soyuz MS-28 spacecraft successfully launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, carrying a crew of three: Russian cosmonauts Sergey Kud-Sverchkov and Sergey Mikaev, along with NASA astronaut Christopher Williams. The Soyuz 2.1a rocket lifted off at 4:27 a.m. EST (2:27 p.m. local time) and completed a two-orbit journey before docking with the International Space Station (ISS) at 7:34 a.m. EST (5:34 p.m. local time). The crew is scheduled to spend approximately eight months aboard the ISS, with a planned return to Earth in late July 2026.
Crew Composition and Mission Goals
This mission marks the first spaceflight for both Williams and Mikaev, while Kud-Sverchkov is on his second mission, having previously logged 185 days in space during Expedition 63/64. Williams, a physicist and former medical physicist, will conduct various scientific experiments and technology demonstrations aimed at advancing human space exploration and benefiting life on Earth. His responsibilities include installing a new modular workout system for long-duration missions, improving cryogenic fuel efficiency, and assisting in the development of re-entry safety protocols.
Docking and Welcome Aboard
Upon arrival at the ISS, the crew was greeted by the existing Expedition 73 team, which includes NASA astronauts Mike Fincke, Zena Cardman, and Jonny Kim, as well as JAXA astronaut Kimiya Yui and Russian cosmonauts Sergey Ryzhikov, Alexey Zubritsky, and Oleg Platonov. The hatch opening occurred around 10:10 a.m. EST, marking the beginning of a busy two-week period for the ten-member crew.
Launch Pad Damage and Implications
Despite the successful launch and docking, the Baikonur launch pad sustained damage during the Soyuz MS-28 liftoff. Roscosmos reported that a movable servicing cabin beneath the launch pad collapsed, raising concerns about Russia's ability to sustain future crewed missions. The agency stated that all necessary spare parts are available for repairs, which are expected to be completed soon. However, analysts have warned that the damage could lead to delays in upcoming crewed and cargo missions, as Baikonur is Russia's only operational site for human spaceflight.
Broader Context of U.S.-Russia Cooperation
The Soyuz MS-28 mission underscores the ongoing collaboration between NASA and Roscosmos, even amid geopolitical tensions. Space exploration remains one of the few areas where U.S.-Russian cooperation continues, despite strained relations following the war in Ukraine. The successful launch and docking of the Soyuz MS-28 crew highlight the importance of international partnerships in maintaining a continuous human presence aboard the ISS, which has been inhabited since November 2000.
Conclusion
The Soyuz MS-28 mission represents a significant achievement in human spaceflight, with the crew set to conduct vital research and maintain the ISS. However, the damage to the Baikonur launch pad poses challenges for future missions, emphasizing the need for ongoing investment in space infrastructure. As the crew embarks on their eight-month journey, the implications of this launch extend beyond the immediate success, raising questions about the future of crewed spaceflight from Russia.
