Russian space agency plans to launch 29 rockets this year – including one to the Moon

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Roscosmos CEO Dmitry Rogozin has told President Vladimir Putin Russia has 29 launches scheduled in the calendar for 2021. The number represents an increase on 2020’s launches, where there were 17 space rocket launches and seven launches of military missiles. The standout mission is a venture back to the Moon, where the Russian space agency will resume its exploration of our lunar satellite.

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The Luna-25 marks Russia’s first foray back to the Moon since 1976, and the first probe to explore the lunar south pole.

According to Russian media outlet Tass, Mr Rogozin told President Putin: “On our timetable there are 29 space rocket launches.

“Moreover, we are to implement some very important projects. For the first time in 45 years, we are to resume exploration of the Moon.

“In October, the first descent module will be launched from the spaceport, Vostochny.

Russian space agency plans to launch 29 rockets this year – including one to the Moon (Image: GETTY)

Roscosmos CEO Dmitry Rogozin and President Vladimir Putin Russia (Image: GETTY)

“More automatic lunar probes will follow. Lastly, a manned program will begin.”

In addition, two modules will be sent to the International Space Station (ISS), with the rockets already primed for launch.

He continued: “Both are at the Baikonur already. Their electric tests are about to be completed.

“The largest module – Nauka – is scheduled for launch in May.”

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Included in the planned launches is the first of the Angara family of rockets.

Angara will replace Russia’s existing rockets and could one day be used to carry humans into space.

Mr Rogozin added: “As you know, we resumed flight tests in December.

“All technical parameters the client set to us have been achieved.

“This year we have plans for the launch of one heavy Angara and two light ones. Then we will build up from this.

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“Respectively, we are developing production in Omsk, at the industrial association Polyot, where the rocket is to be batch-produced starting from 2023 to meet the demand of the Defense Ministry and Roscosmos for these heavy rockets.”

Russia will also launch military satellites which will create the country’s clearest picture of Earth to date.

Mr Rogozin said the launch of an orbital radar is arguably Russia’s most important launch this year.

He stated: “Radars can see everything in great detail in both daytime and night time all year round regardless of weather conditions.

“Practically we are creating navigation maps for the captains of nuclear-powered icebreakers, who will be able to chart the routes in real time mode and escort ship convoys.”

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