Space Brief 30 Mar 2025
Today's highlights include Rocket Lab joining the US Space Force's national security launch program, SpaceX's upcoming Starlink deployment, China's successful EVA, and intriguing science aboard SpaceX's Fram2 mission.
COSMOS 488 DEB (06025)
COSPAR: 1972-034F | Alt Name: Blenda
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 5, 1972
Launch Site
PLMSC
Launch Pad
LC43/4
Launch Vehicle
Voskhod 11A57
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
06025
International Designator
1972-034F
Decay Date
5/20/1972
Basic Satellite Info
Name
COSMOS 488 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
25
Launch Mass
25
Shape
Box
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Sunshade
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.
X Report 17 Mar 2025
SpaceX's Crew-10 mission safely docks with the ISS, setting up for a crew rotation. Starlink continues its global expansion with additional satellite deployments.
Space Brief 13 Feb 2025
Today's brief covers significant advancements in space satellite launches, military spending impacts on space, and notable developments from the Space Force and SpaceX.
X Report 25 Aug 2025
SpaceX faced delays in launching its 10th Starship test flight while successfully deploying a Cargo Dragon to resupply the ISS, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing collaboration with NASA.
X Report 27 Nov 2025
SpaceX's plans for the Transporter-15 mission are temporarily delayed as the Falcon 9 launch was scrubbed. The next launch attempt is now targeted for Friday, Nov. 28, with hopes of delivering 140 payloads into sun-synchronous orbit.
Space Brief 15 Sep 2025
Discover the latest in satellite tracking with key topics covering the launch of Tranche 1 satellites for the Space Development Agency, a record-setting Transporter-15 mission by Exolaunch, and new defense-focused satellite connectivity solutions by Satlink and Rivada.
Vulcan Booster Anomaly Under Scrutiny After USSF-87 Launch | KeepTrack Space Brief
ULA Vulcan faces scrutiny after solid booster anomaly on USSF-87 mission. ThinKom wins portable satellite ground station contract. Space Force starts Project Hecate for GPS past 2040.
X Report 6 May 2025
SpaceX prepares for its 250th mission from SLC-40, while Starlink experiences a surge during a crisis in Spain and Portugal. Additionally, SpaceX celebrates the official designation of Starbase City, aiming to boost launch capabilities.