Incident Overview
On November 27, 2025, the Soyuz MS-28 spacecraft, carrying two Russian cosmonauts and one NASA astronaut, successfully launched from Russia's Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan and docked with the International Space Station (ISS) without incident. However, the launch caused damage to the Baikonur launch pad, Russia's only site equipped to launch crewed Soyuz missions.
Details of the Damage
The damage occurred to several components of the launch pad, including a critical mobile servicing unit located beneath the launch platform that collapsed into the flame trench after liftoff. This access platform, designed to retract and be protected by blast doors before launch, malfunctioned and twisted into a heap. Roscosmos, the Russian space agency, confirmed the damage and stated that inspections and evaluations of the launch complex’s condition are ongoing.
Repair and Impact
Repair estimates for the launch pad damage suggest that it could take up to two years to fully restore the complex. Despite the setback, Roscosmos assured that all necessary spare components are available, and repairs would be conducted swiftly to resume future crewed launches. The incident has raised concern given Baikonur’s unique role as the only launch site for Russia’s human spaceflight missions.
Summary
- Soyuz MS-28 launched successfully from Baikonur with three crew members.
- Launch pad sustained significant damage during liftoff, notably the collapse of a servicing platform.
- Roscosmos is actively assessing damage and plans prompt repairs.
- Estimated restoration time could be as long as two years.
- Baikonur remains critical as the sole crewed Soyuz launch facility.
"Damage to several components of the launch pad was identified. An evaluation of the launch complex's condition is currently underway," Roscosmos stated.
Repair efforts are prioritized, with all necessary spare parts ready for use.
This incident highlights a major operational challenge for Russia’s crewed space program, underscoring the fragility of launch infrastructure and the critical importance of timely repairs to maintain access to space.
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