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 1813 DEB (17893)
COSPAR: 1987-004DB | Alt Name: deb Kosmos-1813
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
January 15, 1987
Launch Site
PLMSC
Launch Pad
LC43/3
Launch Vehicle
Soyuz-U
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
17893
International Designator
1987-004DB
Decay Date
10/14/1987
Basic Satellite Info
Name
COSMOS 1813 DEB
Alternative Name
deb Kosmos-1813
Type
Debris
Status
Space Junk
Owner
UNKS
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
0.22
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.
X Report 9 Apr 2025
SpaceX makes strides with new GPS and Starlink launches while securing major U.S. government contracts.
Musk Outlines Starship Tower Catch Plan, February Ends With 83 Sats | KeepTrack X Report
Elon Musk confirms Starship V3 tower catch attempt plans with SN1 headed for ground tests. SpaceX wraps February with 83 Starlink satellites across three launches. 9,826 sats on orbit.
Orion Crew Returns After Historic Lunar Mission | KeepTrack Space Brief
Artemis 2's four-person crew splashed down April 10 after first crewed lunar flyby since Apollo 17. Orion performance data critical for Artemis 3 south pole landing planning.
Space Brief 8 Sep 2025
Today's highlights include China's Yaogan-40 satellite launch, military contracts for rocket studies, and SpaceX's 500th booster landing.
Space Force Reassigns GPS III to Falcon 9 After Vulcan Grounding | KeepTrack Space Brief
Space Force shifts GPS III satellite launch from ULA's Vulcan to SpaceX Falcon 9 due to persistent solid rocket booster issues. Critical navigation asset reassignment signals operational consequences.
Earthquake Sensors Repurposed to Track Space Debris Reentry | KeepTrack Space Brief
Scientists use earthquake sensors to track space debris reentry via sonic boom detection. SpaceX launches 25 Starlink satellites in seventh mission of 2026. NASA and DOE partner for lunar nuclear power.
Space Brief 27 Oct 2025
Today's space highlights include the US Space Force's advanced tracking contract, a milestone in SpaceX's Starlink program, and a new initiative to remove space debris.