Hermes (satellite program)

2025: Orbit Launch

In December 2025, NPO Kaisant launched an experimental group of small spacecraft into orbit as part of its own satellite program Hermes. This is a domestic project to create a satellite communication infrastructure for autonomous control of robotic systems at distances of more than 200 km from the operator.

The new orbital grouping is designed to work out the possibility of remote data transmission - both information and control channels. The devices were launched along the way with two Aist-2T spacecraft No. 1 and No. 2 with the Soyuz-2-1b launch vehicle with the Fregat upper stage from the Vostochny cosmodrome.

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Фото: Gemini Neural Network

The technology is based on the noise-resistant channel Spetsvyaz Hermes, which has already proven its effectiveness in real conditions. The Hermes project is the basis for a new communication architecture. The program provides technical sovereignty, reduces dependence on import solutions and opens up prospects for large-scale robotization throughout the country.

Cubsat satellites have been launched into orbit, which are designed to conduct communication sessions with ground-based mobile objects. Data transmission is carried out by means of signal relay by the target equipment of small spacecraft - the Hermes repeater and the Hermes modem.

Among the key advantages of the system are the following:

• fully domestic development from spacecraft to control software;
• possibility of direct link with the spacecraft without intermediate stations (Direct-to-Device);
• flexible architecture and the possibility of customization for the tasks of law enforcement agencies and the civil sector.

The possibility of customization for the tasks of law enforcement agencies indicates the military use of the system. Autonomous control of robotic systems over long distances is critical for military operations. Unmanned ground vehicles, drones and other robotics can be controlled through a satellite channel.^[1]

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