Russian satellite conducts maneuvers near US-operated commercial satellite

A Russian military satellite, Kosmos 2612, performed a series of deliberate maneuvers to approach the ICEYE-X36 commercial imaging satellite, according to orbital tracking data from LeoLabs. This encounter marks the first documented case of an unsanctioned rendezvous in low-Earth orbit.

The Russian spacecraft transitioned from hundreds of kilometers away to extreme proximity to the US-operated satellite, remaining nearby for an extended duration before departing. US military officials and independent analysts have monitored the movements of Kosmos 2612 since its launch from northern Russia in April.

Data indicates that at least four other satellites from the same launch have also adjusted their trajectories to align with the orbit of the ICEYE-X36 spacecraft. The incident highlights rising concerns regarding orbital security and the potential for interference with private sector assets in space.