Russian satellite estimated to have come within hundreds of metres of radar satellite
The manoeuvre around the commercial ICEYE satellite has been reconstructed by independent observers, but its purpose remains unknown.
Follow-up to: Russian satellite approaches US satellite above Earth Monday, 19 October 2026, 12:40
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The Russian satellite Kosmos 2612 is believed by satellite trackers to have passed very close to the radar satellite ICEYE-X36. The estimated distance fell to hundreds of metres during several manoeuvres; precise measurements remain uncertain.
The satellite movement is a new development in a case that has already attracted attention in recent days. According to LeoLabs, a company that tracks satellites and space debris, Kosmos 2612 repeatedly changed orbit to approach ICEYE-X36.
ICEYE-X36 is part of a commercial network of radar satellites. ICEYE is a Finnish company that supplies imagery to various customers, including parties monitoring the war in Ukraine. Publicly available information does not confirm that this particular satellite directly carries out military assignments.
An analysis by CNN, published via a local US news channel, reports that the distance was approximately 500 metres at one point. Other space trackers cite smaller distances, but stress that orbit determination during such manoeuvres has a margin of error.
The approach is technically complex because the satellites must not only reach the same altitude, but also align their speed and orbital plane. This could in itself demonstrate proximity operations, but does not yet indicate what Russia intended to achieve.
There is no public confirmation that Kosmos 2612 caused a collision, disruption or other attack. LeoLabs calls the intention uncertain and says further monitoring is needed. The incident does, however, highlight the vulnerability of commercial space infrastructure used for communications, imaging and security.
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The article's central point is supported by two public sources. The text clearly distinguishes between measured movements, estimates and unknown intentions.
- confirmed Kosmos 2612 approached ICEYE-X36 to within approximately hundreds of metres. — Mentioned in CNN's account of the analysis; the exact distance remains uncertain. source
- confirmed The intention behind the manoeuvre has not been established. — According to Axios, LeoLabs says the purpose is uncertain. source
Editor's note
The approach and the uncertainty over the exact distance have been confirmed by multiple public analyses. There is no Russian statement on the purpose of the manoeuvre.Sources
The story so far
- Monday, 19 October 2026, 12:40 Russian satellite approaches US satellite above Earth
- Tuesday, 20 October 2026, 10:43 Russian satellite estimated to have come within hundreds of metres of radar satellite (this article)
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