COSMOS 861 DEB [PELPS] (09631)

COSPAR: 1976-104C | Alt Name: Kosmos-861 DU
DECAYED

Image
COSMOS 861 DEB [PELPS] Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

October 21, 1976

Launch Pad

LC90

Launch Vehicle

Tsiklon-2

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

09631

International Designator

1976-104C

Decay Date

2/4/1977

Basic Satellite Info

Name

COSMOS 861 DEB [PELPS]

Alternative Name

Kosmos-861 DU

Type

Debris

Status

Space Junk

Owner

VMF

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

3.7

Diameter

1.3

Span

3.7

Dry Mass

1650

Launch Mass

2150

Shape

Cyl

Radar Cross Section

8.255

Visual Magnitude

Unknown

Color

Unknown

Material Composition

Unknown

Technical Details

Payload

US-A DU

Purpose

Unknown

Mission

Unknown

Manufacturer

KOMET

Life Expectancy

Unknown

Bus

US-A DU

Configuration

Unknown

Motor

Unknown

Equipment

Unknown

Power System

Unknown

ADCS

Unknown

Transmitter Frequency

Unknown

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