GoKawiilRussian satellite Kosmos 2612 tracked within meters of ICEYE's X36 radar satellite
Tracking data and LeoLabs analysis indicate Russia's Kosmos 2612 conducted a close rendezvous with ICEYE's X36 commercial radar imaging satellite, with estimates ranging from roughly 85 feet to about 500 meters of separation. LeoLabs says the maneuver involved a controlled approach, position shifts, loitering near the satellite, and a controlled departure, rather than a routine orbital pass.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
LeoLabs' Adam Marsh describes this as the most advanced and potentially dangerous uncooperative rendezvous and proximity operation his company has observed, suggesting Russia is testing capabilities to approach and inspect foreign satellites. Because ICEYE's radar imagery has military applications, the incident could signal growing risk of orbital harassment or interference with commercial satellites used for defense purposes, though no damage or confirmed intent has been reported.
- Kosmos 2612 approached ICEYE-X36 to within an estimated 85 feet to 500 meters, per different tracking sources.
- LeoLabs calls the maneuver a sophisticated, deliberate rendezvous and proximity operation, not a chance flyby.
- The episode highlights rising concern over Russian satellites shadowing Western commercial and military-relevant spacecraft in low Earth orbit.
Source: science.slashdot.org, 2026-10-21
Published there as: “Russian Satellite's Close Shadowing of Radar Imaging Satellite Is a Big Deal”
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