COSMOS 1279 DEB (12590)

COSPAR: 1981-062D | Alt Name: KDU
DECAYED

Image
COSMOS 1279 DEB Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

July 1, 1981

Launch Pad

LC31

Launch Vehicle

Soyuz-U

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

12590

International Designator

1981-062D

Decay Date

12/20/1981

Basic Satellite Info

Name

COSMOS 1279 DEB

Alternative Name

KDU

Type

Debris

Status

Space Junk

Owner

GUKOS

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

1

Diameter

0.4

Span

1

Dry Mass

140

Launch Mass

425

Shape

Frust

Radar Cross Section

2.72

Visual Magnitude

Unknown

Color

Unknown

Material Composition

Unknown

Technical Details

Payload

KDU

Purpose

Unknown

Mission

Unknown

Manufacturer

TSSKB

Life Expectancy

Unknown

Bus

Zenit KDU

Configuration

Unknown

Motor

Unknown

Equipment

Unknown

Power System

Unknown

ADCS

Unknown

Transmitter Frequency

Unknown

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