COSMOS 397 DEB (05244)

COSPAR: 1971-015AZ | Alt Name: deb Kosmos-397
DECAYED

Image
COSMOS 397 DEB Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

February 25, 1971

Launch Pad

LC90/20

Launch Vehicle

Tsiklon-2

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

05244

International Designator

1971-015AZ

Decay Date

3/7/1996

Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info

Name

COSMOS 397 DEB

Alternative Name

deb Kosmos-397

Type

Debris

Status

Space Junk

Owner

PKO

Country

USSR

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
Space debris, also known as space junk, encompasses all non-functional objects orbiting Earth such as defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, and fragments from collisions or disintegrations. Over time, this debris can accumulate and create an increasingly hazardous environment in orbit. Even tiny fragments, traveling at extremely high velocities, can inflict significant damage on operational satellites and spacecraft. If left unmanaged, the density of debris raises the risk of catastrophic collisions and further fragmentation, compounding the problem and threatening the safety and sustainability of space activities.
Physical Characteristics

Length

0

Diameter

0

Span

0

Dry Mass

0

Launch Mass

0

Shape

N/A

Radar Cross Section

0.0744

Visual Magnitude

Unknown

Color

Unknown

Material Composition

Unknown

Technical Details

Payload

Unknown

Purpose

Unknown

Mission

Unknown

Manufacturer

Unknown

Life Expectancy

Unknown

Bus

Unknown

Configuration

Unknown

Motor

Unknown

Equipment

Unknown

Power System

Unknown

ADCS

Unknown

Transmitter Frequency

Unknown

Satellite Articles

View All Posts »

Learn more about satellites and other related topics.

X Report 29 Aug 2025

X Report 29 Aug 2025

SpaceX celebrates a record-breaking Falcon 9 launch while Starship demonstrates strong performance in its recent test flight, fueling excitement for upcoming projects.

X Report 13 Nov 2025

X Report 13 Nov 2025

Today's report covers SpaceX's progress on Starship pad realignment and Rocket Lab's delay of its Neutron rocket debut, highlighting key advancements and competitive dynamics in the space industry.

X Report 3 Apr 2025

X Report 3 Apr 2025

Exciting advancements from SpaceX's Fram2 mission and the pivotal role of biotech in space exploration.

The Satellite That Found 22 Photons and Changed Astronomy

The Satellite That Found 22 Photons and Changed Astronomy

On April 27, 1961, a Scout rocket lifted a 37-kilogram NASA satellite into orbit from Wallops Island carrying the first serious instrument for detecting cosmic gamma rays. Explorer 11 operated for seven months before its tape recorder failed. In that time it registered 22 gamma-ray photons - a pitiful number by modern standards, but enough to launch an entire branch of astronomy.

X Report 8 May 2025

X Report 8 May 2025

SpaceX launches 28 more Starlink satellites while addressing conflicts of interest and expanding home connectivity with a new router.

Artemis 2 Crew Arrives for April 1 Lunar Flyby Launch | KeepTrack Space Brief

Artemis 2 Crew Arrives for April 1 Lunar Flyby Launch | KeepTrack Space Brief

Artemis 2 astronauts arrive at KSC for April 1 launch. Four-person crew will fly lunar free-return trajectory, first crewed lunar mission since Apollo 17 in 1972.

China's Rocket Factory Finds a Second Gear

China's Rocket Factory Finds a Second Gear

In 2024, China launched 68 orbital missions. In 2025, the number jumped to 97. In 2026, state media and Western analysts agree the target is 140 or more. Most of that growth is being driven by two state-backed mega-constellations, a half-dozen private launch companies hitting stride, and a deliberate national pivot toward commercial space. Beijing is no longer trying to catch SpaceX. It is trying to build an industrial base that outlasts one.

Space Brief 12 Dec 2024

Space Brief 12 Dec 2024

U.S. Space Force's Europe operations amidst Ukraine conflict, Maxar's new partnership, integration of military and commercial tech, and the Pentagon's new AI initiatives shape today's space discourse.