Russia’s Cosmos 2612 satellite makes unusually close on-orbit maneuvers near an ICEYE X36 radar-imaging satellite associated with Ukraine support, according to multiple reports. Satellite-tracking firm LeoLabs says Cosmos 2612 approaches to within about 500 meters, while another outlet describes the closing of distance from hundreds of kilometers to “extreme proximity.” The maneuvering follows weeks of atypical behavior by the Russian spacecraft.
Outlets characterize the activity as potentially dangerous because close approaches can increase the risk of collision or debris generation, even if the intent is unclear. Reporting also emphasizes that ICEYE X36 is widely believed to be connected to services that aid Ukraine, while Cosmos 2612 is the Russian satellite carrying out the approach. The accounts focus on the distance and the unusual nature of the maneuvers rather than providing evidence of direct interaction beyond proximity changes.
