Updated
Updated · Space.com · May 6
Russian satellites COSMOS 2581 and 2583 approach within 10 feet in orbit
Updated
Updated · Space.com · May 6

Russian satellites COSMOS 2581 and 2583 approach within 10 feet in orbit

6 articles · Updated · Space.com · May 6
  • COMSPOC said the April 28 low Earth orbit event involved COSMOS 2582 and subsatellite Object F, with 2583 making fine manoeuvres to hold the formation.
  • Radar data from LeoLabs indicated COSMOS 2582 trailed within 100km, while Object F passed within 15km of 2582 and 10km of 2581 without manoeuvring.
  • COMSPOC said the same satellites had conducted three-object proximity operations since late 2025, underscoring Russian inspector-style capabilities also seen in US and Chinese spacecraft.
Are Russia's sophisticated orbital maneuvers a rehearsal for space warfare or a step toward on-orbit servicing?
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