Russia has recently launched the world’s first Arctic observation satellite system. Utilizing data from two Roscosmos satellites, the new constellation allows for continuous meteorological and environmental monitoring of the Arctic surface, including the Northern Sea Route. This marks the first time that a hydro-meteorological space system has been established for permanent observation of the Arctic regions and surrounding territories.
The development of this system aligns with Russia’s goals to intensify its exploitation of the Arctic’s oil and gas resources. Additionally, it will offer crucial telecommunications services in the Arctic, necessary for air traffic and commercial shipping in the remote area. The system is planned to expand with a total of 10 Earth-orbiting satellites, including communication, GPS, commercial, and remote sensing satellites. Placed in a Highly Elliptical Orbit (HEO), these satellites will ensure full-time coverage of the high latitudes not currently provided by existing international geostationary satellites.
Russia’s significant investments in the Northern Sea Route near the Siberian coastline aim to establish it as an alternative shipping route, reducing travel distances between the Far East and the West in comparison to the Suez Canal route. With
