Russian space program officials suggest that a single spacewalk could set a new record for the number of small satellites deployed. Oleg Artemyev, a Roscosmos cosmonaut, hinted that a current plan may push the envelope on how many cubesats and microsatellites can be released in one excursion, a topic first discussed with TASS.
The preliminary schedule envisions six separate satellite buses to be launched initially, followed by another four during an ensuing activity that does not involve vehicle deployment. Experts are also examining the feasibility of coordinating the simultaneous release of ten satellites so they can form an interlinked network and exchange data as soon as they reach orbit, a concept that would enhance mission data handling and situational awareness in space. (TASS)
Public records note that Aleksey Varochko, previously serving as the General Manager at the Khrunichev Center, discussed Rokot-M launch plans. He indicated that the first Rokot-M mission from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome could occur in 2024, marking a significant milestone for Russian launcher development. (TASS)
Earlier communications from Varochko in the summer described the Rokot-M with a Russian control system as a candidate for an initial flight in 2022. After thorough equipment inspections, engineers concluded that some hardware needed to be re-ordered because existing units had been in service for a long period and had exhausted their expected life, delaying the readiness timeline. (TASS)