COSMOS 1408 and the 2021 Russian ASAT Test Debris Field
COSMOS 1408, a defunct Soviet-era satellite, became the focal point of global attention following a Russian anti-satellite (ASAT) test on 15 November 2021. Originally launched on 16 September 1982, COSMOS 1408 was part of the Tselina-D electronic intelligence satellite series. Its primary mission was to gather signals intelligence, a crucial component of Cold War-era surveillance operations. The satellite was catalogued under NORAD ID 13552.
The Tselina-D series, to which COSMOS 1408 belonged, was designed to intercept and analyse electronic signals from ground-based sources. These satellites played a significant role in the Soviet Union's military intelligence capabilities. By the time of its destruction, COSMOS 1408 had been inactive for several years, serving as a relic of past technological endeavours.
Before its destruction, COSMOS 1408 orbited at an altitude of approximately 485 km with an inclination of 82.5 degrees. This polar orbit allowed for extensive coverage of the Earth's surface, particularly suitable for intelligence missions. The satellite's orbital period was roughly 94 minutes, completing over 15 orbits per day. These characteristics made it a valuable asset during its operational lifetime.
The destruction of COSMOS 1408 during the ASAT test created a significant debris field, adding approximately 1,500 trackable pieces to the existing space debris problem. This event raised international concerns about the sustainability of space activities and the risks posed to operational satellites and crewed missions. The debris field is expected to persist for years, complicating space operations and increasing collision risks in low Earth orbit (LEO). The Orbital Radar debris map provides ongoing tracking of these fragments.
As of 2026, the debris from COSMOS 1408 continues to pose challenges for satellite operators. The fragments have spread across various altitudes, threatening both active satellites and the International Space Station (ISS). Efforts to mitigate the impact include enhanced tracking and avoidance manoeuvres. The Orbital Radar satellite library offers detailed information on the current status of these debris pieces.
