The satellite, designated “Rassvet” and identified by the NORAD tracking number 68363, experienced a notable failure following its launch in March 2026. This unit, part of the larger “Objekt 4” group, failed to execute any orbit-raising maneuvers after deployment. Consequently, the satellite steadily lost altitude until atmospheric drag ultimately caused its descent.
This incident marks the first confirmed loss attributed to the Russian “Rassvet” constellation program. The “Rassvet” initiative represents Russia’s effort to develop a domestic capability to establish a fleet of low Earth orbit broadband satellites. The stated objective of this program is to create a national alternative to the American “Starlink” system, which currently dominates the commercial satellite internet market.
Due to external geopolitical pressures, Russia is currently unable to participate in or utilize the existing global commercial satellite infrastructure. The launch of the satellites on March 23, 2026, was conducted under conditions marked by high secrecy. While the program aims to maintain a stable operational orbit for providing internet services, the recent inability of the “Rassvet” satellite to sustain its intended trajectory highlights immediate technical challenges facing the nascent constellation.
The incident provides the initial data point regarding the operational reliability of the system intended to bolster Russia’s independent communications network.
Topics: #orbit #create #first
The satellite, designated “Rassvet” and tracked by NORAD under number 68363, experienced a failure following its launch in March 2026. This unit, which is part of the larger “Objekt 4” group, was unab