Russia Builds New Spacecraft Facility at Vostochny for “Orel”
May 3, 2026
Russia is making significant progress on its next-generation crewed spacecraft “Orel,” a project that could redefine the country’s future in space exploration. At the Vostochny Cosmodrome, engineers are building advanced ground infrastructure designed specifically to service and prepare the spacecraft’s reusable descent module—something never before implemented in Russian human spaceflight.
Unlike the decades-old Soyuz spacecraft, Orel is larger, more advanced, and partially reusable. It can carry up to six cosmonauts and is designed for both low-Earth orbit missions and future deep-space exploration, including potential lunar missions. One of its most groundbreaking features is its reusable descent module, which could be used for up to ten flights, significantly reducing long-term costs.
Before its planned 2028 launch, Orel will undergo extensive testing, including launch escape system trials and high-risk landing simulations using heavy-lift helicopters like the Mi-26. These tests are critical to ensuring crew safety and mission reliability.
The first mission will be uncrewed, followed by two crewed test flights before the spacecraft becomes fully operational. Once ready, Orel is expected to replace Soyuz and support Russia’s future orbital station and lunar ambitions.
In this video, we break down everything you need to know about Orel—from its cutting-edge design to its strategic importance in the global space race.
#Orel #RussiaSpace #Roscosmos #SpaceNews #Vostochny #Soyuz #SpaceExploration #LunarMission #SpaceTechnology #RocketScience #HumanSpaceflight #Angara #SpaceRace #FutureTech #Aerospace
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