A Classified Russian Satellite Has Reportedly Gone Out of Control

On February 5, 2022, a few days before Russia launched its offensive on Ukraine, the Cosmos 2553 was launched in orbit, a particular satellite. On the Russian side, it is explained that this is a scientific instrument. But on the American side, it is estimated that this device is in fact a step in the development of a weapon capable of destroying other satellites.

USA vs Russia: the new space race

This information is not trivial. In recent years, the United States has put the package to be able to develop a whole space branch of its army. Between tests of vessels and satellites, it would seem that uncle Sam is preparing to fight future battles well above the earth.

However, on February 5, 2022, when Russia launched the COSMOS 2553, the United States feared that their historic competitor in the military field will follow suit to also develop weapons that could be used in space. Indeed, for American information, the Russian satellite would serve as a radar but also as a test platform for radiation.

Mixed with the fact that this satellite was placed in a very isolated orbit and we have information there that could suggest that Russia develops a specific weapon. This is in any case what the Americans think who believe that the Cosmos 2553 would not be a weapon in itself, but a part of a nuclear weapons program that can in particular target other satellites.

Cosmos 2553, a satellite which has become uncontrollable

Inevitably, with what the Americans think, there was a good chance that the satellite has become a choice of choice of choice. Thus, two companies had Cosmos 2553: Slingshot and Leolabs. The first is a network of telescopes and the second is a laboratory for studying objects in low terrestrial orbit.

Thus, since its launch, the satellite has been carefully scrutinized and if it does not give any alarming sign in the space of two years, in May 2024, Slingshot announces that Cosmos 2553 showed potential signs of fall. But quickly, the device regains its initial condition at 2,000 kilometers above sea level.

It was not until November, then in December that new signs are spotted. At that time, based on the visual data of Slingshot and the radar analysis of Leolabs, the researchers were convinced of it, “The satellite is no longer operational”Cites an analysis of Leolabs.

However, as we learn The Guardianit would seem that according to the observation data of Slingshot, Cosmos 2553 would have stabilized. Keeping its version of the facts, Russia continues to explain that the device is a test platform for instruments in an irradiated environment, something refuted in the United States.

“” “This inconsistency, associated with a proven desire to target American objects and allies in orbit [ndr, notamment les constellations Starlink qui permettent des communications sécurisées pour les troupes ukrainiennes au sol] increases the risk of erroneous perception and climbing“Said a spokesperson for US Space Force in words reported by the British media.

Source : The Guardian