Space Brief 29 Dec 2025
Today's highlights include Japan's new military satellite imagery initiative, NASA's SPHEREx map, and AST BlueBird 6's groundbreaking cellular array in low Earth orbit.
SL-7 DEB (03628)
COSPAR: 1968-117C | Alt Name: deb Kosmos-261
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
December 19, 1968
Launch Site
PLMSC
Launch Pad
LC133/3
Launch Vehicle
Kosmos 11K63
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
03628
International Designator
1968-117C
Decay Date
1/6/1969
Basic Satellite Info
Name
SL-7 DEB
Alternative Name
deb Kosmos-261
Type
Debris
Status
Space Junk
Owner
TSUKOS
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
0
Diameter
0
Span
0
Dry Mass
0
Launch Mass
0
Shape
N/A
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Space Brief 26 Nov 2025
Today's update covers new military space initiatives, impacts of drone threats in Europe, and advancements in secure cloud technology for NATO and Ukraine.
X Report 26 Nov 2024
SpaceX sets launch milestones with quick turnarounds and new Starlink deployments, while eyeing rapid Starship expansions next year.
X Report 12 Jun 2025
Today, SpaceX faced delays in launching the Ax-4 mission due to a booster leak, while Starlink made strides towards launching in India with new telecom license approval.
Space Brief 10 May 2025
Today's brief covers Rocket Lab's Neutron being selected for military tests, Space Force's strategic updates, Germany's SAR satellite plans, and a significant NASA nomination.
Space Force Awards Orbital AMTI to 9 Companies | KeepTrack Space Brief
Space Force confirmed 9 companies won orbital Air Moving Target Indication contracts. Capability shifts airborne surveillance to satellites for expanded coverage and survivability.
X Report 19 Nov 2025
SpaceX successfully launched another batch of Starlink satellites in a night mission, marking a significant return to evening launches post-regulations.
Sandhoo Takes Dual SDA Director, Missile Warning Role | KeepTrack Space Brief
Brig. Gen. Gursharan Sandhoo double-hatted as SDA director and Space Force missile warning PAE head as Pentagon consolidates LEO satellite programs under new acquisition structure.