Russian satellite Kosmos 2612 closed in on ICEYE-X36
Original title: Russian Satellite Makes a Close Approach To A Commercial Radar Satellite Used by Ukraine
LeoLabs says the low-Earth-orbit approach fits proximity operations, but intent and the closest distance remain disputed.
Kosmos 2612 moved from about 350 kilometers to under 5 kilometers of commercial radar satellite ICEYE-X36 around October 15–16, then adjusted nearby before moving away on Monday. CNN reported a possible approach of less than a mile; LeoLabs estimated roughly 500 meters, while other readings put the gap at a few meters or about 26 meters. Four Russian-controlled satellites had changed orbits toward ICEYE-X36 in May. ICEYE says it is tracking the event and designed its constellation for continuity. Whether this satellite specifically images Ukraine, and what Russia intended, is not established.
Unconfirmed: Closest separation is disputed, and Russia’s intent and ICEYE-X36’s exact role for Ukraine are unconfirmed.
- LeoLabs called the behavior consistent with rendezvous and proximity operations.
- Kosmos 2612 was one of six satellites launched together on April 17.
- Earlier Russian approaches to US spy satellites were tens of kilometers, not this close.
- ICEYE operates about 80 radar satellites; ICEYE-X36 belongs to its US subsidiary.
- A Ukrainian official could not say whether this specific satellite is used by Ukraine.
- Vendors
- ICEYE
- Products
- ICEYE-X36Kosmos 2612
- Countries
- RussiaUkraineUnited States
From the original article
4 min read at securityaffairs.com
A Russian satellite made a close approach to a commercial radar satellite linked to Ukraine, raising concerns about surveillance and security in space. A Russian-made satellite called Kosmos 2612 got very close to ICEYE-X36 last week, a commercial Earth-observation satellite that may support countries like Ukraine. CNN reports it may have come within less than […]
By Pierluigi Paganini · securityaffairs.com
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