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What caused the damage to Baikonur's launchpad?
The damage at Baikonur occurred during a Soyuz MS-28 launch, which successfully delivered astronauts to the ISS but resulted in significant damage to the launchpad's service cabin. The incident is believed to be linked to structural issues that are now being repaired by Roscosmos, with the goal of restoring the pad by February 2026.
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How are repairs progressing at Baikonur?
Roscosmos has received all necessary replacement parts and has begun structural repairs on the damaged service cabin. According to reports, the repairs are on track to have the launchpad operational again by February 2026, despite logistical challenges posed by winter conditions and resource allocation.
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What impact do these incidents have on upcoming space missions?
The damage at Baikonur has led NASA to accelerate its Dragon supply missions, CRS-34 and CRS-35, to mitigate potential supply gaps for the ISS. Meanwhile, Russian Progress missions have been delayed until March 2026. These disruptions highlight how technical issues can ripple through international space efforts.
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Why did SpaceX's Starship V3 booster fail during testing?
During ground testing in Texas, SpaceX's Starship V3 booster experienced a critical structural failure. This setback delays the booster’s testing campaign and could impact NASA's Artemis lunar program, which relies on SpaceX's technology for future moon missions.
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Could these failures affect future space exploration plans?
Yes, both the damage at Baikonur and the SpaceX booster failure highlight the risks and challenges of space exploration. While repairs and testing continue, these incidents serve as reminders of the importance of safety, innovation, and resilience in advancing human spaceflight.
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Are there broader geopolitical implications of these incidents?
The incidents come amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, with Russia's space program facing underfunding and resource diversion due to the Ukraine conflict. The delays and damage at Baikonur reflect broader challenges in maintaining space infrastructure under geopolitical strain, which could influence international cooperation in space.