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Russian President Vladimir Putin, Russian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industry and Trade Denis Manturov, Head of Russian state space corporation Roscosmos Yuri Borisov visit the centre of the Rocket and Space Corporation “Energia” in Korolyov outside Moscow, Russia, October 26, 2023.
Significance
Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that the first segment of Russia’s new orbital station, set to replace the aging International Space Station (ISS), is expected to be operational by 2027. This development marks a significant milestone in Russia’s space exploration program and signifies the country’s commitment to maintaining its capabilities in manned space flight.
Features
The new Russian orbital station is planned to consist of multiple segments and will incorporate advanced achievements in science and technology. It aims to consider the tasks of the future and serve as a platform for further space exploration endeavors.
Objectives
The primary objective of Russia’s new orbital station is to continue its presence in space after the retirement of the ISS, which is expected to reach its resource limits by 2030. By establishing its own orbital station, Russia aims to ensure the continuation of manned space flights and further advancements in space research and exploration.
Effects
The development of Russia’s new orbital station will have several effects on the country’s space program. It will allow Russia to maintain its leadership role in space exploration and ensure the continuity of its manned missions. Additionally, it will provide opportunities for international collaboration, as other nations may choose to partner with Russia in utilizing the orbital station for scientific research and space missions.
Pros and Cons
While the establishment of a new orbital station brings numerous advantages, there are potential challenges that need to be considered. On the positive side, Russia will have full control over the station’s operations, enabling it to align its space program with its strategic objectives. The new station can be tailored to suit Russia’s specific needs and goals. However, building and maintaining a space station requires significant financial investment and technical expertise. It will also require international cooperation to ensure the successful transition from the ISS and avoid a potential gap in space capabilities.
Fun Fact
Russia’s lunar program, despite the recent failure of the Luna-25 mission, will continue. President Putin emphasized that mistakes are part of space exploration and valuable lessons can be learned from them. The next moon launch might even be moved forward to 2026, demonstrating Russia’s determination to explore and expand its presence beyond Earth.
Overall, Russia’s plans for a new orbital station showcase its commitment to space exploration and maintaining its capabilities in manned missions. By focusing on the future of space research and collaborating with international partners, Russia is poised to make significant contributions to the advancement of scientific knowledge and humanity’s understanding of the universe.
Mutiple Choice Questions
1. What is the new orbital station that Russia plans to put into operation by 2027?
a) International Space Station (ISS)
b) Luna-25
c) Russian Orbital Station
d) Rocket and Space Corporation “Energia”
Explanation: According to the information, President Vladimir Putin mentioned the new orbital station as the next logical development in space exploration after the ISS. Therefore, the correct answer is c) Russian Orbital Station.
2. Why did President Putin extend Russia’s participation in the ISS until 2028?
a) The International Space Station is getting old and will come to an end by 2030.
b) Russia’s first moonshot failed in August.
c) The resources of the ISS are running out.
d) The Russian programme risks falling behind in manned space flight.
Explanation: President Putin mentioned that the extension of Russia’s participation in the ISS until 2028 was a temporary measure, as the resources of the ISS are running out. Therefore, the correct answer is c) The resources of the ISS are running out.
3. When does President Putin believe the first segment of the new Russian orbital station should be placed in orbit?
a) 2024
b) 2026
c) 2027
d) 2028
Explanation: President Putin stated that the first segment of the new Russian orbital station should be placed in orbit by 2027. Therefore, the correct answer is c) 2027.
4. According to Yuri Borisov, head of Roscosmos, why is it crucial for Russia to start large-scale work on creating a Russian orbital station in 2024?
a) The ISS will no longer exist after 2030.
b) Russia’s first moonshot failed in August.
c) The Russian station won’t be ready in time.
d) The ISS is getting old.
Explanation: Yuri Borisov emphasized the importance of starting large-scale work on creating a Russian orbital station in 2024 because the ISS will no longer exist after 2030, leaving a time gap where Russia’s capabilities in manned space flight might be lost. Therefore, the correct answer is a) The ISS will no longer exist after 2030.
5. What did President Putin say about the future of Russia’s lunar program?
a) It will be closed due to technical mishaps.
b) It will continue despite the failure of Luna-25.
c) It will be delayed until 2027.
d) It will be moved forward to 2026.
Explanation: President Putin stated that the lunar program will continue and there are no plans to close it, despite the technical mishaps and failure of Luna-25. Therefore, the correct answer is b) It will continue despite the failure of Luna-25.
Brief Summary | UPSC – IAS
Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced that the first segment of Russia’s new orbital station should be operational by 2027. Putin expressed his commitment to Russia’s lunar program despite the failure of its first moonshot in 47 years. He also extended Russia’s participation in the International Space Station (ISS) until 2028, stating that it was a temporary measure. Putin emphasized the need for timely development of the new station to avoid falling behind in manned space flight capabilities. Yuri Borisov, the head of Roscosmos, supported Putin’s position, warning that Russia could lose its capabilities if work on the new station does not start soon.
