Russia Plans Parachute Tests for New Reusable Crewed Spacecraft This Fall

Russia is preparing to begin parachute testing for a new reusable spacecraft designed to transport people into space, according to comments from Russian space official Bakanov translated by Ars contributor Rob Mitchell.

“The first step is the launch and testing of a new and promising reusable human transport spacecraft,” Bakanov said. “And in the fall there will be parachute drops and tests in the Far East.”

Spacecraft to undergo launch abort testing

The spacecraft is also expected to be tested later this year in an emergency rescue mode designed for an accident on the launch pad. Additional testing is planned for 2027 in what Russian officials described as the “zone of maximum dynamic pressure.”

It is not clear whether the upcoming tests will use actual flight hardware, boilerplate vehicles, or mockups. However, the reference to the maximum dynamic pressure zone likely means Max Q—the point during launch when aerodynamic forces on a rocket are greatest. That suggests the program may include some form of launch-abort test, an important step toward eventual human spaceflight.

First crewed launch could come in 2028 or 2029

Russian space authorities are reportedly targeting the first crewed launch of the spacecraft for 2028 or 2029. The mission could use an Angara A5M rocket, although the schedule remains uncertain and should not yet be considered firm.

Russia has previously announced ambitious plans for the spacecraft and for the revival of its lunar program. Four years ago, Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke confidently about the Eagle spacecraft and a renewed effort to send missions to the Moon. Neither plan has come to fruition.

Russia’s proposed successor to Soyuz

Regardless of its final name or completion date, Russia’s next-generation crewed spacecraft is intended to replace the Soyuz. The vehicle is expected to be capable of carrying astronauts to low Earth orbit and, eventually, transporting people to the Moon.