The Evolution of Space Stations
A brief journey through the evolution of space stations, delving into Russia's Mir, the International Space Station, China's Tiangong, and envisioning the future of orbital habitats.
COSMOS 249 DEB (18468)
COSPAR: 1968-091DD | Alt Name: deb Kosmos-249
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
October 20, 1968
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC90/20
Launch Vehicle
Tsiklon-2A
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
18468
International Designator
1968-091DD
Epoch
Sat, 04 Jul 2026 04:15:50 GMT
Apogee
Calculating...
Perigee
Calculating...
Inclination
62.25°
Right Ascension
107.68°
Eccentricity
Calculating...
Argument of Perigee
91.43°
Period
112.31 min
Mean Motion
12.82 rev/day
Latitude
Calculating...
Longitude
Calculating...
Altitude
Calculating...
Velocity
Calculating...
Polar Plot
3D Visualization
Basic Satellite Info
Name
COSMOS 249 DEB
Alternative Name
deb Kosmos-249
Type
Debris
Status
Space Junk
Owner
PKO
Country
USSR
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 18468U 68091DD 26185.17767188 .00001584 00000-0 19158-2 0 9992
2 18468 62.2518 107.6774 0777529 91.4327 277.5774 12.82157784601650
Source: Celestrak
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
0.0095
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
Map
Next Pass
Azimuth Elevation Time (Local)
Start Azimuth
Max Elevation
Stop Azimuth
Time Until
Pass Duration
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
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.
X Report 4 Sep 2025
SpaceX conducted multiple successful launches this week, adding to its Starlink constellation and marking significant milestones in its ongoing missions.
Space Brief 14 Sep 2025
Today's highlights include SpaceX's 300th Starlink launch, NASA re-establishing contact with a TRACERS satellite, and budget concerns impacting the commercial remote sensing industry.
X Report 19 Apr 2025
SpaceX faces regulatory review for Bahamian rocket landings, positions itself for a major government contract, and a new Star Wars Lego set adds to the fun!
Space Brief 5 Nov 2025
Today's focus: Sidus Space's new AI edge computer, Space Force's dynamic operations initiative, and key Pentagon acquisition reforms.
Space Brief 20 Aug 2024
Polaris Dawn's upcoming commercial spacewalk, successful lunar orbit by Chinese spacecraft, and more space news including SpaceX's Starlink mission, RFA's static-fire failure, and advances in satellite technology.
Europe's First Starlink Direct-to-Smartphone Service Goes Live | KeepTrack X Report
Virgin Media O2 launches Europe's first Starlink direct-to-smartphone service in the UK. SpaceX launches 29 more Starlink satellites. Dragon cargo capsule returns after 6-month ISS mission.