Russian Luch-5 relay satellites successfully ensured data transmission and control of the Soyuz MS-29 manned transport spacecraft during its launch, flight, and docking with the ISS. The spacecraft were created by JSC RESHETNEV, a Roscosmos enterprise.

After Soyuz MS-29 left the direct radio communication zone with ground complexes, the Luch system continued to transmit service information. Telemetry data was sent to Earth via satellites, and control commands were transmitted to the spacecraft.

The Luch multifunctional space relay system has been in operation since December 2015 and is designed to organize prompt information exchange between ground control points and low-orbit spacecraft.

In addition to supporting manned missions, the system is used to transmit data from spacecraft and conduct television broadcasts from areas where stable ground communication is unavailable.

The operation of Luch-5 satellites expands the capabilities of controlling Russian space technology and maintaining communication with spacecraft even beyond the direct line of sight of ground stations.