Space Brief 8 Apr 2025
Key highlights include the launch of a Navy SEAL astronaut to the ISS, multi-billion dollar contracts awarded by the US Space Force, advancements in secure GPS technology, and a strategic ISR arrangement.
ISS DEB (51278)
COSPAR: 1998-067SZ | Alt Name: UM antenna cover
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
November 20, 1998
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
51278
International Designator
1998-067SZ
Decay Date
3/13/2022
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
ISS DEB
Alternative Name
UM antenna cover
Type
Debris
Status
Space Junk
Owner
RKKE
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
0.2
Diameter
0.1
Span
0.2
Dry Mass
2
Launch Mass
2
Shape
Cyl
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 Force Eyes Asteroid Mining, Clashes With Congress on R-GPS | KeepTrack Space Brief
Space Force sees strategic value in asteroid mining. Congress pushes back on R-GPS phase-out over jamming risks. BlackSky expands Gen 3 defense contracts.
Space Brief 6 Jun 2025
Today's space news features significant discussions on the funding of Space Force, advancements in hypersonic technology, and the potential impacts of spectrum auction plans on border defense systems.
Space Brief 29 Sep 2025
Today's Space Brief discusses significant military satellite launches, groundbreaking agreements for lunar nuclear power, and Italy's satellite strategy dilemma. Additionally, we cover the Dream Chaser's upcoming demonstration flight and new Pentagon contracts for rocket motor production.
Space Brief 7 Dec 2025
Today's highlights include a record-breaking event at the International Space Station, significant funding for hypersonic missile production, and several key military developments impacting space strategy.
Space Brief 27 Dec 2025
Today's Space Brief covers a notable satellite deployment in LEO, a leadership shift in Blue Origin's defense wing, and ongoing recovery efforts for NASA's MAVEN orbiter.
Space Brief 20 Apr 2025
Today's highlights include advances in space tracking technology by the US Space Force, SpaceX's infrastructure expansion, and a spectacular birthday landing on Earth. Additionally, we spotlight a significant exoplanetary discovery and satellite updates.
Transporter 16 Carries 119 Payloads to SSO, X Report 29 Mar 2026
Transporter 16 carries 119 payloads: SpaceX's rideshare mission targets Sun-synchronous orbit from Vandenberg, one of its densest manifests yet.