Russia resumes use of space launch site damaged in accident
Part of the launch site in Kazakhstan collapsed during the lift-off of Soyuz MS-28 in November last year, temporarily preventing Russia from being able to send cosmonauts into space.
Summary
In November 2025, part of a Russian space launch site in Kazakhstan collapsed during the lift-off of the Soyuz MS-28 mission. This incident halted Russia's ability to send cosmonauts into space for a period.
The resumption of operations at this launch site indicates a restoration of capacity for Russia's space program, which is critical for maintaining its presence in human spaceflight.
The implications of this development extend to international collaboration in space exploration, as Russia seeks to re-establish its operational capabilities in the wake of the incident.
Updates
Update at 09:30 UTC on 2026-03-23
Phys.org reported Russia has successfully launched a rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome's Site 31 for the first time since its damage last November.
Sources: Phys.org