Russian Cosmos Satellites Conduct Complex Multi-Object Proximity Operations in LEO

Id: 93

Published: 05/26/2026

Description:

Radar tracking data from LeoLabs, processed through the COMSPOC SSA Suite, shows Russian satellites Cosmos 2581, 2582, 2583, and Object F conducting a complex multi-object proximity event in low Earth orbit. On April 28, Cosmos 2581 and Cosmos 2583 reached a closest approach of roughly 3 meters with near-zero relative velocity, with Cosmos 2583 executing several fine maneuvers to hold the tight configuration rather than simply making a coincidental pass. Cosmos 2582 trailed the formation at sub-100 km range, while Object F, a subsatellite released by Cosmos 2583, passed within 15 km of Cosmos 2582 and within 10 km of Cosmos 2581 without maneuvering, extending a pattern of sophisticated Russian three-object RPO activity tracked since these satellites launched on February 5, 2025.