Satellite Security in an Era of Orbital Threats

Over recent weeks, five of Russia’s satellites, Cosmos 2610-2614, have been repositioned from 97 to 97.8 degrees. While less than a degree will seem insignificant to most, a slight change like this dramatically alters a satellite’s path. This shift placed the Cosmos on the same orbital plane as ICEYE-X36, a Finnish-American satellite that has been providing valuable information to Ukraine through thousands of images during the war. The Russian satellites have reportedly come within 500 meters of the lone spacecraft, which is strikingly close for objects traveling up to 28,000 kilometers per hour.

Russia’s intentions here are unclear. There is speculation of how the Cosmos could threaten the Ukrainian asset. They could destroy it, take out its solar panels, or jam its radars. But experts find these options unlikely, and believe that they are performing what is known as a Rendezvous and Proximity Operation, or an RPO, which brings multiple objects together in orbit to inspect or refuel them. Still, the satellites changing to the same orbital plane as the enemy will keep military and citizens on high alert for a possible next move.

To protect satellites, it is imperative to know how far they are from other spacecraft to prevent collisions or attacks. Satellite tracking systems accomplish this by continuously measuring the asset’s position and motion using sensors such as radar and optical telescopes. These measurements are then used to predict the asset’s future orbit and its proximity to potential threats.

While this situation still contains many unanswered questions, the incident highlights the growing importance of Space Situational Awareness. Satellites are no longer used solely for scientific research, but have become crucial in navigation, intelligence gathering, and national security. Now, operators must be able to not only recognize the possibility of collisions with other spacecraft and debris, but attacks from enemies as well. With more objects entering orbit each year, accurate tracking and analysis will become even more essential for maintaining satellites’ safety and security.