X Report 30 Dec 2024
SpaceX wraps up the year with significant launches, including a record-setting Astranis deployment and Starlink missions signaling the year's end.
COSMOS 396 DEB (05006)
COSPAR: 1971-014F | Alt Name: Blenda
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
February 18, 1971
Launch Site
PLMSC
Launch Pad
LC43/3
Launch Vehicle
Voskhod 11A57
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
05006
International Designator
1971-014F
Decay Date
3/4/1971
Basic Satellite Info
Name
COSMOS 396 DEB
Alternative Name
Blenda
Type
Debris
Status
Space Junk
Owner
GUKOSR
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
20
Launch Mass
20
Shape
Box
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
BZA
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
TSKBE3
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Zenit BZA
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.
Gunter's Space Page
Why this unassuming website has become the backbone of space research for enthusiasts and professionals alike
X Report 23 Sep 2025
SpaceX successfully launched the NROL-48 mission, growing the National Reconnaissance Office's satellite fleet. Additionally, NASA introduced ten new astronaut candidates, increasing female representation in its ranks.
Space Brief 9 Dec 2024
Highlights include China's rising threats in space, a new Starlink launch, NASA's optimistic future, and a cosmic conjunction featuring the Moon and Saturn.
The Satellite That Found 22 Photons and Changed Astronomy
On April 27, 1961, a Scout rocket lifted a 37-kilogram NASA satellite into orbit from Wallops Island carrying the first serious instrument for detecting cosmic gamma rays. Explorer 11 operated for seven months before its tape recorder failed. In that time it registered 22 gamma-ray photons - a pitiful number by modern standards, but enough to launch an entire branch of astronomy.
Rheinmetall Weighs Bid for Mynaric Amid Rocket Lab Acquisition | KeepTrack Space Brief
German defense giant Rheinmetall may bid for laser-comm firm Mynaric, challenging Rocket Lab's plans. SpaceX sets Falcon 9 reuse record. Juno reveals Europa ice sheet data.
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.
Artemis 2 Crew Returns After 50-Year Lunar Milestone | KeepTrack Space Brief
Artemis 2 splashdown marks first crewed lunar flyby since Apollo 17 in 1972. Four astronauts completed historic mission, validating systems for Artemis 3 landing attempt.