Space Brief 21 Apr 2025
Today's briefing highlights SpaceX's recent launch of spy satellites, a US Space Force contract for deep space tracking, and advancements in quantum communications in space.
COSMOS 1260 DEB (13690)
COSPAR: 1981-028BG | Alt Name: Kosmos-1260 solar array
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
March 20, 1981
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC90
Launch Vehicle
Tsiklon-2
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
13690
International Designator
1981-028BG
Decay Date
3/18/1990
Basic Satellite Info
Name
COSMOS 1260 DEB
Alternative Name
Kosmos-1260 solar array
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
0
Diameter
0
Span
0
Dry Mass
0
Launch Mass
0
Shape
N/A
Radar Cross Section
40.07
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
RCS 40m2
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
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