From MercoPress · · 50s
Russian satellite shadows US one for days
Russian satellite chases US satellite within 5km for days in rare space move.
In brief
Russian satellite chases US satellite within 5km for days in rare space move. A Russian military satellite maneuvered within 5km of a US commercial satellite for days, the first known active satellite encounter without consent. Originally reported by MercoPress.
Russian satellite maneuvers
A Russian military satellite, Kosmos-2612, maneuvered for several days at close range to a US commercial satellite.
Close approach details
It came within five kilometers on October 16 and then withdrew, now over 100 kilometers away.
Tracking company report
LeoLabs says it had never before observed a deliberate approach of this kind sustained over several days.
Expert reaction
Astrophysicist Jonathan McDowell called it an unprecedented step by Russia if correct.
Space command warning
Germany's Space Command head warned such maneuvers force satellites to adjust orbits, consuming fuel.
The key point
A Russian military satellite maneuvered within 5km of a US commercial satellite for days, the first known active satellite encounter without consent.
