Russian Satellite That Worried NATO Enters End-of-Life Orbit

A Russian satellite, the Luch-Olymp, which had previously caused concern among NATO members about potential military intentions in space, is now entering its end-of-life orbit. This satellite, launched in 2014, was observed maneuvering to higher altitudes over a two-week period in October, moving away from a protected region and drifting westward. This action is seen by spaceflight experts as either a deliberate disposal or a repositioning for its final tasks, effectively bringing its operational mission to a close. The Luch-Olymp satellite had been under scrutiny due to its capabilities in conducting proximity operations with other commercial and military spacecraft. This behavior, described as "shadowing," raised alarms, particularly from Germany and Intelsat, as it suggested potential on-orbit intelligence gathering that could complicate deterrence efforts for NATO. Germany, in response, announced a significant investment in its own space program to develop constellations resistant to jamming and kinetic attacks. While the repositioning of the Luch-Olymp satellite indicates a reduct... download the app to read more