Plans for the launch of the new Russian manned spacecraft "Orel" have been delayed again. Alexander Bloshenko, Executive Director for Science at Roscosmos and Chairman of the Coordination Scientific and Technical Council, revealed the reasons for the delays to journalists.
Bloshenko noted that the launch dates are closely related to the preparation of infrastructure and vehicles. The "Orel" spacecraft operates within the framework of a space rocket complex, which requires appropriate infrastructure at the Vostochny Cosmodrome.
He emphasized the need to construct an assembly and testing facility at the cosmodrome, as well as the availability of search and rescue equipment for the crews. Bloshenko added that the "Angara" rocket is necessary for performing the flights, and testing of the launch infrastructure for it has only just begun.
However, Bloshenko assured that this would not lead to an endless delay in the process.
In any case, it will not become an endless construction project
At the initial stages of the Russian orbital station, to which the new spacecraft will be directed, the "Orel" crew will consist of two people.
It is worth recalling that the "Orel" spacecraft, also known as the prospective transport spacecraft (PTK) "Federatsiya", has been under development since 2009. Despite the initial planning for the first flight in 2015, it is now expected to take place in 2028-2029.
