The Day America's Spy Satellites Gained New Eyes
Sixty-three years ago, a Thor-Agena rocket launched the first dual-camera reconnaissance satellite, revolutionizing space-based intelligence while hiding behind the final use of a famous cover name
COSMOS 1461 DEB (15713)
COSPAR: 1983-044AG | Alt Name: deb Kosmos-1461
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 7, 1983
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC90
Launch Vehicle
Tsiklon-2
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
15713
International Designator
1983-044AG
Decay Date
8/17/1991
Basic Satellite Info
Name
COSMOS 1461 DEB
Alternative Name
deb Kosmos-1461
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
0.163
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.
Space Force Awards $1.8B Andromeda Program to 14 Firms | KeepTrack Space Brief
Space Force selects 14 companies for $1.8 billion Andromeda program to replace GSSAP geosynchronous surveillance satellites with commercial alternatives through 2036.
Space Domain Awareness (SDA)
The evolution from simply tracking objects in orbit to understanding the full strategic picture of who is doing what in space, and why
Space Brief 30 Jan 2025
Today's Space Brief covers key developments including U.S. Space Force tech accelerator, SpaceX veterans' startup funding, ULA's expected dominance in national security missions, and new satellite activity.
Space Brief 5 Jun 2025
Today's brief highlights a significant geospatial data collaboration between Maxar and Saab, defense budget discussions affecting satellite deployments, and the naming of new military command chiefs.
Space Brief 31 Jul 2025
Today's Space Brief brings updates on the U.S. Space Force's upcoming missions, in-space technology strategies, the challenges faced by new launchers, and advancements in satellite communication.
Falcon 9 Shatters Reuse Record With 33rd Flight on Double Launch Day | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX launches two Falcon 9 rockets in one day carrying Starlink satellites from both coasts. Most-flown booster achieves record 33rd flight. 28 V2 Mini Optimized sats deployed.
Space Brief 28 Dec 2025
Exploring the future of space with concerns on space debris, rapid growth in orbital data centers, and new developments at launch sites.