A Russian aerospace company has launched the first batch of satellites into low orbit, aiming to form a vast constellation that will enable internet connection, as part of a project meant to compete with Starlink, SpaceX’s company, according to The Moscow Times.
The first elements of the state-funded satellite constellation, known as Rassvet, were supposed to be launched into space at the end of last year, but delays postponed the start of the launch program until this month.
Bureau 1440, the private aerospace company developing the network, told Kommersant newspaper that 16 satellites were launched into space Monday evening.
The company stated that the satellites will undergo system checks before moving to their target orbital positions.
The satellite internet constellation is intended to provide broadband internet access throughout Russia and serve as a domestic alternative to Starlink, owned by billionaire Elon Musk.
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