tech
Russia Launched First 16 Satellites for Rassvet, Its Version of Starlink Internet
The Rassvet project should provide satellite internet throughout Russia by 2030. At least 300 satellites and an investment of over five billion dollars are planned.
TL;DR
- Russia has launched the first 16 satellites for its "Rassvet" satellite internet project.
- The project aims to provide broadband internet across Russia by 2030, including remote regions like Siberia and the Arctic.
- The network plans to comprise at least 300 satellites, with estimates suggesting over 900 by the mid-2030s.
- Investment for the project is estimated at approximately 400 billion rubles (over $5 billion).
- Rassvet aims for internet speeds up to 1 Gbps with signal latency up to 70 milliseconds.
- The network is considered to have strategic importance for state and military communications, especially after experiences in Ukraine with Starlink.
- Challenges include rapid satellite production and developing compact, affordable terminals for mass use.
- Successful implementation would provide Russia with its own Starlink alternative, reducing dependence on foreign communication systems.