Korolyov, Russia

Capital City

This "science city" of 226,007 people is a far cry from the glamorous image of Russia's space program. While the city hosts the Russian Mission Control Center, the reality on the ground is a persistent headache of bureaucracy and outdated infrastructure. As one former resident described, skilled technicians and scientists live alongside "impoverished workers in various hard and glamourless jobs" - a striking contrast to the Soviet-era slogans of equality. Overall, Korolyov offers a gritty, functional existence for those dedicated to the space industry, but little in the way of modern comforts or amenities.