The head of Roscosmos, Dmitry Bakanov, noted in an interview with RBC TV that the choice of the station's orbital inclination raises many questions. The possibility of docking with modules from other countries depends on this decision. The orbit determines whether astronauts can transfer between stations, which is important for international missions.
Previously, a polar orbit with an inclination of 97 degrees was discussed. It would allow observing the territory of Russia and the Northern Sea Route. However, such an orbit is associated with risks, including an increased level of radiation.
There are now many questions about the inclination of the orbit, about international cooperation. Because the orbit that we choose, the orbit that the United States and other countries choose for their prospective orbital station, will determine the possibility of docking, undocking, and astronauts transferring between the two modules.
Bakanov did not specify what alternatives are being considered, but the choice of orbit remains key to the project. Technological aspects, such as protection from radiation and module compatibility, require careful study.
Earlier, www1.ru reported that Roscosmos is developing a reusable first stage rocket.
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