In 2024, Roscosmos plans to launch four experimental models of small spacecraft (SCA) "Grifon," designed for surveying the Earth's surface, and the main satellite constellation will be launched in 2025-2026. This was announced by the head of the state corporation, Yuri Borisov.
It is known that the constellation will consist of 136 CubeSat standard devices (a small spacecraft in the form of a cube measuring 10 cm by 10 cm). This standard also involves combining 2-3 cubes into one module.
Thanks to the development of modern technology, the creation of SCA has become possible at relatively low costs. At the same time, small satellites can solve important research and technical tasks.
The launch of SCA into Earth orbit began in 2003. The devices were launched into space as a secondary payload by Russian launch vehicles and from the International Space Station (ISS).
It was previously reported that "Grifon" will be included in the program of the global satellite constellation "Sphere." The SCA project will be financed with the attraction of private investment.