Moscow | November 28, 2025:
Russia’s space program has taken a major blow after the service platform at Launch Pad 31 of the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan was severely damaged during the launch of the Soyuz MS-28 mission on November 27. Viral footage showed flames engulfing the structure as the rocket ascended with its three-member crew bound for the International Space Station (ISS).
The mission successfully delivered Russian cosmonaut Sergey Ryzhikov, NASA astronaut Kathleen Rubins, and UAE astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi to space. However, the launch’s aftermath has cast doubt on Russia’s continued ability to conduct manned missions, as this pad is currently its only operational platform for crewed flights.
Roscosmos chief Yuri Borisov confirmed that the platform’s structural integrity was compromised, warning that repairs could take several months and cost an estimated $50 million. The timing adds pressure to an already strained Russia-Kazakhstan relationship regarding the management of the Baikonur facility, which Moscow leases until 2050.
Kazakh officials, including national space agency head Talgat Musabayev, demanded compensation and criticized safety lapses, noting the declining condition of the Soviet-era infrastructure. Baikonur currently hosts 90% of Russia’s space launches, making the damage a critical setback.
The incident occurs amid heightened geopolitical tensions, with Russia recently emphasizing space militarization, including publicized hypersonic weapons tests. It also complicates U.S.-Russia space cooperation, already fragile following the Ukraine conflict.
Space policy experts warn that the destruction of Launch Pad 31 could prompt significant delays in future missions, increasing Russia’s reliance on the still-developing Vostochny Cosmodrome in the Far East. The setback also raises questions about ISS operations beyond 2028, as Russia remains a key transport partner.
As of 3:00 AM GMT on November 28, joint Russia-Kazakhstan investigations are underway. The event is expected to influence upcoming lease renewal negotiations, shaping the future of Baikonur and deepening global competition in the evolving space race.
