Aldoria is reporting that the Russian satellite, Luch-2, continues to closely approach telecommunication satellites in GEO at an altitude of 35,780 km.
Early in July, Aldoria’s tracking system detected Luch-2 closely and slowly approaching a Norwegian commercial satellite, maintaining a distance of approximately 80 km. As of this writing, recent maneuvers have reduced this distance to only 20 km, raising significant concerns about the Russian satellite’s intentions.
Aldoria had already detected suspicious behavior from Luch-2 in April and has been extremely vigilant in monitoring the satellite’s pattern of life since then. This ongoing surveillance has been crucial in tracking Luch-2’s movements and understanding its intentions.
Aldoria’s optical observation station noted the proximity of Luch-2 to essential telecommunication satellites, including three satellites from a Norwegian commercial satellite operator and the INTELSAT 1002. These satellites all provide a range of telecommunication services, including broadcasting, broadband, and data communications across multiple regions.
These satellites are critical for maintaining continuous communication services for public and private sectors. This close approach, from a satellite with undefined intentions, poses a potential risk to these critical assets, emphasizing the importance of space domain awareness (SDA).
“In this increasingly complex space environment, characterised by an increasing number of satellites, diverse actors, and heightened activity, space domain awareness (SDA) is essential for detecting anomalies, and safeguarding critical assets. Aldoria’s ongoing surveillance has been crucial in delivering detailed pattern-of-life analysis. We are continuously expanding and innovating our network of stations to provide the most advanced SDA capabilities, ensuring timely alerts for satellite operator,.” said Mylène Bosio, VP Marketing & Sales, Aldoria.
With its six observation stations, Aldoria performs multi-orbit tracking, providing extensive surveillance and ensuring that no maneuver goes unnoticed. Aldoria remains vigilant, alerting operators to ensure satellite safety.