Space Brief 6 Apr 2025
Today, we explore substantial U.S. defense contracts awarded for space launches, ESA's enigmatic Euclid images release, and SpaceX missions covering satellite launches and astronaut reentries.
COSMOS 2421 DEB (33138)
COSPAR: 2006-026MW | 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
33138
International Designator
2006-026MW
Decay Date
10/4/2008
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
0.04
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 23 Oct 2024
Today's brief shines a light on surging space debris due to a new satellite breakup, SpaceX's continuous Starlink expansions, and notable legal support for Elon Musk's launch endeavors.
Musk Confirms Starmind AI Constellation, X Report 24 Jun 2026
Musk confirms Starmind, an AI satellite constellation targeting 1 million orbital compute nodes. Starfall's debut and Dragon's ISS departure follow.
The Day We Banned the Word "Film"
On January 20, 1972, the second KH-9 HEXAGON lifted off from Vandenberg - carrying the most sophisticated reconnaissance system ever built by engineers who weren't allowed to say 'film,' 'camera,' or even talk to each other about what they were doing.
Space Brief 23 Jun 2025
Significant advancements and launches in space: NASA's hypersonic sensor breakthrough, ChinaSat-9C's launch, and SpaceX's resilient Falcon 9 operations.
Space Brief 5 Nov 2024
Today's highlights include SpaceX's Dragon cargo mission to the ISS, the first wooden satellite launch, and updates on NASA's Voyager mission. Additionally, the Space Force's X-37B space plane showcases unique aerobraking strategies.
Pentagon Reveals Space & Cyber "First Mover" Role in Iran Operations | KeepTrack Space Brief
Space & Cyber Command disrupted Iran ops as US munition stockpiles drop. Space Force shifts to commercial ground stations & faces acquisition workforce gaps.
X Report 11 Dec 2025
SpaceX has confirmed plans for an IPO and successfully launched multiple batches of Starlink satellites, advancing its mission for global internet coverage.