Roscosmos has refused to launch 36 internet satellites of UK-based firm OneWeb. The UK government also holds stakes in the company.
Russia’s war in Ukraine is now expanding into outer space as Moscow’s space agency has refused to launch 36 internet satellites of a UK-based firm, clearly mentioning that the refusal decision was taken over sanctions imposed by the West. Satellite startup OneWeb, a London-based company in which the UK government also holds shares, was set to launch a batch of 36 internet satellites Friday as part of its plan for a 648-satellite constellation. The startup is a key competitor to Elon Musk’s StarLink satellite internet constellation. However, the refusal by Russia’s space agency Roscosmos seems to be disrupting OneWeb’s plans. As per the previous plans, a Russian-built Soyuz rocket operated by France’s Arianespace SA was scheduled to deliver the satellites into low Earth orbit.
