Reentry
What happens when space objects come home: the fiery physics of returning from orbit and why predicting where debris lands is so difficult
COSMOS 2136 DEB (21193)
COSPAR: 1991-016F | Alt Name: KDU
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
March 6, 1991
Launch Site
PLMSC
Launch Pad
LC16/2
Launch Vehicle
Soyuz-U-PVB
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
21193
International Designator
1991-016F
Decay Date
3/24/1991
Basic Satellite Info
Name
COSMOS 2136 DEB
Alternative Name
KDU
Type
Debris
Status
Space Junk
Owner
UNKSR
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
1
Diameter
0.4
Span
1
Dry Mass
140
Launch Mass
425
Shape
Frust
Radar Cross Section
2.34
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
KDU
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
TSSKB
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Zenit KDU
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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