Space Brief 30 Aug 2025
Today's briefing covers the latest satellite communications advancements, a secretive military launch by SpaceX, and new space defense organizational structures.
COSMOS 1696 DEB (16233)
COSPAR: 1985-095F | Alt Name: KDU part
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
October 16, 1985
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC31
Launch Vehicle
Soyuz-U
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
16233
International Designator
1985-095F
Decay Date
11/7/1985
Basic Satellite Info
Name
COSMOS 1696 DEB
Alternative Name
KDU part
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
0
Diameter
0
Span
0
Dry Mass
0
Launch Mass
0
Shape
N/A
Radar Cross Section
2.7
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
KDU part
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
TSSKB
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Zenit deb
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 Brief 27 Oct 2024
Today's brief covers SpaceX's latest Starlink launch, updates on Crew-8's return, and preparations for the SLS Artemis II mission.
Space Brief 27 Sep 2025
Today's brief covers next-generation missile defense strategies, NASA's Dream Chaser contract updates, and technological advances in Air Force cyber defense.
Space Brief 10 Feb 2025
Discover today's key space events: SpaceX's Starlink launch, rocket debris risks, and advancements in nuclear rocket technology.
Pentagon Orders 30,000 One-Way Drones; Sierra Space Raises $550M | KeepTrack Space Brief
Pentagon to order 30,000 attritable drones within days via Gauntlet competition. Meanwhile, Sierra Space closes $550M Series C funding round for national security spaceplane applications.
Space Brief 21 Jul 2025
Today's brief covers SpaceX's latest Starlink launch, fascinating exoplanet discoveries, and strategic lunar developments by China and South Korea.
Space Force Terminates $1.7B SCAR Contract, Relaunches | KeepTrack Space Brief
Space Force terminated its $1.7B SCAR ground antenna modernization contract and is relaunching competition. Delays extend reliance on aging legacy systems for MEO and GEO satellite command.
X Report 2 Jan 2025
SpaceX's 2024 launch surge sets global records, with Florida making history in the U.S. Find out how these achievements are shaping the commercial space race.