Space Brief 5 Oct 2025
Today's brief covers significant advancements in national security space launches, ongoing rocket developments, and critical updates from the space industry.
Launch Date
August 18, 1981
Launch Site
PLMSC
Launch Pad
LC41/1
Launch Vehicle
Soyuz-U
NORAD ID
12716
International Designator
1981-079A
Decay Date
8/30/1981
Name
COSMOS 1297
Alternative Name
Kosmos-1297
Type
Status
Owner
GUKOS
Country
USSR
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Length
6
Diameter
2.2
Span
6
Dry Mass
2655
Launch Mass
2655
Shape
Sphere + DCone
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Payload
Argon No. 39L
Purpose
Reconnaissance, photo (film return type)
Mission
Reconnaissance, photo (film return type)
Manufacturer
TSSKB
Life Expectancy
14 days
Bus
Zenit-6
Configuration
Zenit bus
Motor
11D82M; S5.120 (maneuver module)
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Batteries
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Today's brief covers significant advancements in national security space launches, ongoing rocket developments, and critical updates from the space industry.
SpaceX launches Starlink while debuting on Nasdaq at $1.77 trillion valuation. Meanwhile, Senate FY2027 NDAA would dissolve SDA into Space Force, affecting Tranche constellation tracking.
How a controversial telescope network has become a significant player in tracking the increasingly crowded orbital environment, raising important questions about transparency, dual-use technologies, and the future of space situational awareness.
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.
NRO awards three commercial data contracts and explores vetting satellite firms for airborne target tracking via U.S. Space Force. Strategic expansion of GEOINT capabilities.
SpaceX has been active, with successful launches of Starlink satellites and major developments at Cape Canaveral, signaling a competitive edge in satellite communication and launch capabilities.
SpaceX delivered 3 Block 2 BlueBird satellites for AST SpaceMobile from Pad 40, advancing direct-to-cell broadband with 10,650 Starlink craft now active.
SpaceX prepares for the Crew-11 astronaut mission launch, while Starlink continues to expand its satellite network in orbit.