Space Brief 24 Dec 2025
Today's highlights include the successes and setbacks in recent rocket launches, a notable satellite anomaly, and a significant expansion announcement from ESA.
Launch Date
January 24, 1992
Launch Site
PLMSC
Launch Pad
LC43/3
Launch Vehicle
Molniya 8K78M
NORAD ID
21847
International Designator
1992-003A
Decay Date
1/17/2012
Name
COSMOS 2176
Alternative Name
Kosmos-2176
Type
Status
Owner
PVO
Country
Russia
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Length
4
Diameter
2
Span
5
Dry Mass
1150
Launch Mass
1250
Shape
Cyl + 2 Pan
Radar Cross Section
14.2905
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Payload
Oko 73D6 No. 6050
Purpose
Early warning
Mission
Early warning
Manufacturer
NPOL/KOMET
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Oko
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
2 deployable fixed solar arrays, batteries
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Today's highlights include the successes and setbacks in recent rocket launches, a notable satellite anomaly, and a significant expansion announcement from ESA.
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