Russian satellites spark intrigue with secret orbital maneuvers
Three Russian military satellites, after executing a series of mysterious maneuvers in a polar orbit, released an unknown object. This has sparked interest among space researchers and analysts, who suspect that Russia is testing new technology in orbit.
At the beginning of February, from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome, a Soyuz-2.1V rocket was launched into space carrying a satellite designated Kosmos 2581. The mission was conducted on behalf of the Russian Ministry of Defense.
There was nothing unusual about this event until it was later revealed that the rocket launched a total of three satellites into orbit, not just one. The additional units were designated as Kosmos 2582 and Kosmos 2583.
In March, the satellites, observed by the U.S. Space Force, were in a polar orbit 364 miles above Earth. They performed numerous proximity operations, maneuvering around other objects.
Suddenly, on March 18, a new mysterious object appeared in orbit. It was likely released by the Kosmos 2581 satellite.
Mysterious operations in orbit
Russia has not disclosed any details about the mission of its three satellites, nor has it mentioned the new object in orbit. This lack of information is not surprising. Many Kosmos satellite missions are classified.
According to experts, the released object might have various applications. It could be used for military experiments, such as satellite inspections or targeting exercises, testing docking technology, or flying in formation. It might also be a scientific payload or the result of unintended fragmentation. However, as experts note, in such cases, many pieces of debris usually form.
The designation "Kosmos" has been used for a wide range of military and scientific satellites since 1962. These satellites serve various purposes, some of which are experimental, secret, or part of military programs.
Source: space.com
