SpaceX Orbits 7.5-Ton SiriusXM Satellite & 24 Starlinks | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX completed two launches June 28, orbiting the 15,000-lb SXM-11 satellite and 24 Starlink V2 craft from Vandenberg.
COSMOS 491 DEB (06047)
COSPAR: 1972-038E | Alt Name: KDU
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 25, 1972
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC31
Launch Vehicle
Voskhod 11A57
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
06047
International Designator
1972-038E
Decay Date
6/11/1972
Basic Satellite Info
Name
COSMOS 491 DEB
Alternative Name
KDU
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
140
Launch Mass
430
Shape
Frust
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
KDU
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
TSKBE3
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Zenit KDU
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 2 Jan 2025
Today's recap covers SpaceX's role in record launch numbers, the FCC's spectrum allocation for launches, and the historical portrayal of the Ingenuity helicopter.
Space Brief 22 Nov 2024
Today's key topics include delays in Vulcan's national security launches, a significant network upgrade contract for the Space Force, and military interest in SpaceX's Starship.
X Report 31 Jul 2025
Today's highlights include the ongoing Crew-11 mission launch and Starship preparations for its upcoming test flight.
X Report 15 Nov 2025
SpaceX made headlines with back-to-back Falcon 9 launches from Florida, successfully deploying 29 additional Starlink satellites, further enhancing its extensive broadband network.
Space Brief 4 Jul 2025
Explore today's key space events including China's satellite launch, ULA's Vulcan rocket preparations, significant budget bills from Congress, and discussions on lunar business prospects.
SpaceX Orbital Data Center Plans Draw Astronomer Fury | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX's orbital data center constellation and TERAFAB's $25B AI chip factory spark backlash as Starlink surpasses 10,116 working satellites.
Space Brief 8 Aug 2025
Today's brief highlights significant shifts in military space spending due to the Golden Dome program, the U.S. Space Force's advancements in tactical satellite communications, and NASA's race to nuclear power in space.