Space superpower Russia falls down to earth

TOKYO -- Russia, once a leader in the space business, has become a mere shadow of its former self.

The total number of the country's satellite launch orders from Europe and elsewhere fell by 90% following its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, leaving the U.S. as the sole superpower in space. Smaller players, including India and China, are now jockeying to expand their presence at Russia's expense.