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Soyuz-2.1b From Vostochny Delivers 52 Satellites to Orbit

Authorities in Yakutia are assessing a fallen rocket fragment for radiation.

Overview

  • Roskosmos confirmed the Aist‑2T Earth‑imaging pair separated from the Fregat upper stage and reached their target orbit after the December 28 launch.
  • Roskosmos head Dmitry Bakanov said Fregat deployed 52 spacecraft in total, including university-built satellites and the 16U Scorpion mission from Moscow State University.
  • Russia conducted its first space leasing deal as Zorkiy‑2M remote‑sensing satellites funded by GTLK and built by Sputniks were among the payloads, alongside SITRO‑AIS ship‑tracking and SITRO‑TD IoT tech demonstrators.
  • International and educational payloads included satellites for Iran, Belarus and Ecuador, the UAE’s QMR‑KWT‑2, and Yakutia’s first small satellite, Cholbon.
  • Yakutia’s rescue service reported a separated stage fragment in Vilyuysky District and began radiation measurements, with broader recovery work planned for spring conditions.