2 private spacecraft zoom within 650 feet of each other to showcase 'advanced capabilities' in orbit (photos)
Two spacecraft operated by the company Impulse Space pulled off an impressive orbital feat recently, coming within less than 650 feet of each other.
On September 8, 2026, two private spacecraft operated by Impulse Space demonstrated advanced maneuverability in low Earth orbit (LEO). The two Mira satellites, LEO-2 and LEO-3, zoomed within 200 meters (650 feet) of each other during a series of carefully coordinated maneuvers.
Impulse Space CEO Tom Mueller stated that such dynamic, agile movements are essential for unlocking full access to space and creating new mission possibilities. The LEO Express 2 (LEO-2) and LEO Express 3 (LEO-3) spacecraft, which launched in January 2025 and November 2025, respectively, were responsible for the rendezvous.
The operation began in February when LEO-2 performed a lengthy engine burn to close in on its counterpart. Additional smaller burns were conducted throughout the spring and summer to achieve orbital alignment with LEO-3. The closest approach occurred in July, with LEO-2 maneuvering to within 200 meters of LEO-3.
Two other companies, Starfish Space and HEO, collaborated with Impulse Space to capture the orbital photo shoot. This successful demonstration of orbital maneuverability showcases the advanced capabilities of Impulse Space's Mira vehicles, setting them apart from other spacecraft.
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