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Baikonur Launch Pad Damage Threatens Future Crewed Missions

11/28/2025

31 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan may face disruptions after launch pad damage during the Soyuz MS-28 on November 27, 2025.
Roscosmos confirmed a movable servicing cabin collapsed, hindering crewed launches.
Analysts say repairs could take over a week and delay International Space Station (ISS) missions.
This is the first time since 1961 that Russia may be unable to launch humans into space, amid funding issues and international sanctions.

History

Historical Context

Yuri Gagarin's historic flight on April 12, 1961, marked the Soviet Union's triumph in the Space Race, following the launch of Sputnik 1 in 1957. However, today, Baikonur Cosmodrome faces significant challenges, including a 30% budget cut due to international sanctions, threatening crewed launches for the first time since Gagarin's mission and highlighting the impact of geopolitical tensions on space exploration.

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Story summary

The Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan may face disruptions after launch pad damage during the Soyuz MS-28 on November 27, 2025.
Roscosmos confirmed a movable servicing cabin collapsed, hindering crewed launches.
Analysts say repairs could take over a week and delay International Space Station (ISS) missions.
This is the first time since 1961 that Russia may be unable to launch humans into space, amid funding issues and international sanctions.

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