The 10 Most Iconic Satellites Still in Space
Let's look at the legacy of space exploration with the 10 most iconic satellites still orbiting Earth.
COSMOS 2421 DEB (33001)
COSPAR: 2006-026HE | Alt Name: deb Kosmos-2421
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
June 25, 2006
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC90/20
Launch Vehicle
Tsiklon-2
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
33001
International Designator
2006-026HE
Decay Date
8/12/2008
Basic Satellite Info
Name
COSMOS 2421 DEB
Alternative Name
deb Kosmos-2421
Type
Debris
Status
Space Junk
Owner
KVR
Country
Russia
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
0.0332
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Unknown
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
ARSL
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.
Space Brief 1 Jun 2025
Today's highlights cover critical satellite launches including SpaceX's GPS III mission, advancements in SATCOM technology, and changes in NASA leadership.
X Report 29 Mar 2025
Starlink gains ground in geopolitical shifts, while SpaceX makes progress on next-gen facilities and prepares for Crew-11 mission to ISS.
X Report 7 Feb 2025
DIU explores SpaceX Starship's in-space refueling; Investors advise startups against competing or emulating SpaceX.
X Report 26 Aug 2025
SpaceX's ongoing challenges with the Starship Flight 10 launch are prominent today, as weather and technical issues continue to push back the schedule. Meanwhile, successful cargo missions to the ISS highlight the company's ongoing commitment to space operations.
SaxaVord Spaceport
The UK's orbital ambitions rest on a remote Shetland island. How SaxaVord became Europe's first fully licensed vertical launch spaceport - and why, despite being ready for years, it's still waiting for a rocket that works.
The Day America's Revolutionary Rocket Design Made Its Final Flight
Twenty years ago, an Atlas rocket carrying a classified payload lifted off from Cape Canaveral, marking the end of a revolutionary spacecraft design that helped launch America into the Space Age
X Report 22 Oct 2025
SpaceX sets a new launch record as it prepares for its 133rd Falcon 9 mission. Additionally, developments in satellite technology and mergers in the space sector highlight the ongoing competition.