Space analysts have observed that COSMOS 2553, a Russian satellite, is suspected by the US military to be linked to a nuclear anti-medical weapons program, and appears to be out of control in orbit.
The development could be a major set-off for Russia’s secret space weapons program, but it also raises questions about how safe the orbit is. Tensions are rising between the US and Russia just before the start of the Ukrainian War. Released on February 5, 2022, Cosmos 2553 is believed to serve as a platform for testing Russian intelligence reporting agencies and radiation-related technologies. US officials argue that its main role is to support the development of Russian nuclear weapons that can erase satellite networks, such as SpaceX’s Starlink, which is important for the Ukrainian military. Russia has denied these claims, claiming that the satellite is for research in high-radiation environments.
I found a Russian military satellite spinning
As Reuters reported, information received from the two civil aerospace companies showed that the satellites were clearly out of control last year, suggesting they are no longer operational. The US Space Command, which monitors the orbit, noted the changes in the altitude of the Cosmos 2553, but refused to say anything more. The Russian Ministry of Defense has not responded to these concerns.
The action of Cosmos 2553, orbiting 2,000 km in areas with high radiation avoided by most satellites, shows the growing importance of commercial space tracking services, where both civilian and military customers form part of the rapidly evolving industry in high demand.
Russia’s recent space activities have been a source of concern over military escalation. The US Space Command is noting the contradiction between Russia’s asserted mission to satellites and its properties. Russia, China and the US have recently invested heavily in military space technology, increasing the likelihood of worrying about possible conflicts in orbit, and the fate of Cosmos 2553 has increased its uncertainty in already tense areas.
