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Russian satellites for planned Starlink alternative fail to reach target orbit

Tracking data indicates that all 16 Rassvet-3 satellites launched in July are stuck in low orbits where atmospheric drag poses a risk of early re-entry.

Updated Sep 2, 2026 · 06:18 UTC1 reports

The short version

  • A full batch of 16 Russian Rassvet-3 internet satellites launched on July 19 failed to reach their intended 500-mile orbit, remaining at lower altitudes between 190 and 250 miles.
  • The issue leaves the developing constellation with only 12 functional spacecraft in long-term orbit out of 32 total launched to date.
  • The setback complicates Moscow's push to deploy an indigenous satellite internet network following SpaceX's cutoff of Starlink access for Russian forces.
  • The exact cause of the failure remains unconfirmed by manufacturer Bureau 1440 and space agency Roscosmos.

Key facts

  • All 16 Rassvet-3 satellites launched on July 19 are orbiting between 190 and 250 miles rather than their intended 500-mile altitude, according to U.S. Space Force tracking data.[Business Insider]
  • Across two separate launches, satellite developer Bureau 1440 has sent 32 satellites into space, with only 12 currently sustaining long-term orbits.[Business Insider]
  • Russia prioritized the development of the Rassvet-3 constellation after SpaceX disconnected Russian forces from Starlink satellite internet services on February 1.[Business Insider]
  • Ukrainian estimates indicate Russia requires roughly 200 to 250 operational satellites to sustain a stable communications and combat drone network.[Business Insider]

What remains uncertain

  • The precise root cause preventing the satellites from reaching higher altitudes is unknown, and neither Bureau 1440 nor Roscosmos responded to requests for comment.[Business Insider]
  • It remains uncertain whether any of the 16 newly launched satellites can perform sufficient maneuvers to prevent burning up during premature atmospheric re-entry.[Business Insider]

Sources