Putin Sets 2027 Deadline for Russian Space Station Launch

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that the first segment of the new Russian orbital space station, intended to replace the International Space Station (ISS), should be in orbit by 2027. Despite recent setbacks, Putin emphasized the need to avoid any gaps in space exploration and called for timely progress. The Russian space industry has faced funding problems, corruption scandals, and setbacks, including the crash of the Luna-25 module on the moon's surface. Putin pledged to continue funding lunar missions and urged the resolution of low salary issues in the space industry, as well as the involvement of foreign specialists and increased private business participation. The ISS, a symbol of international cooperation, is expected to continue operating until 2030, according to NASA.