The launch, which takes place in the middle of a global space rivalry, aims to rekindle Russia’s lunar presence.
Russia is ready to launch its Luna-25 mission to the moon, resurrecting lunar goals after nearly 50 years, marking a tremendous leap in space exploration. Russia’s mission, which aims to ensure its place in the global space race, coincides with India’s lunar venture this month, putting both countries in a tight fight for lunar supremacy.
The launch of the Luna-25, the first since the Soviet era, is significant geopolitically as Russia tries to demonstrate its own potential to reach the moon’s surface, despite the absence of European Space Agency assistance owing to the Ukraine crisis. Both vehicles are intended for the tough lunar south pole, an unknown zone for soft landings, and are scheduled to land around the same time as India’s mission, according to AP.
This expedition represents more than just scientific interest, as space analyst Vitaly Egorov underscores the underlying political rivalry between world superpowers, primarily the United States and China. Despite sanctions, Russia pursues its space goals, overcoming access limits to foreign technologies by stressing homegrown talent.
The Luna-25’s trip begins at the Vostochny Cosmodrome, a brainchild of President Putin and monument to Russia’s desire to redefine its space dominance.
