The Day Electric Propulsion Changed Spaceflight Forever
Fifty-five years ago, a revolutionary spacecraft launched from California carrying technology that would transform how we explore the solar system
SL-6 R/B (00770)
COSPAR: 1964-014B | Alt Name: Molniya 8K78(M) (N17) Blok-I
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
March 27, 1964
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC1
Launch Vehicle
Molniya 8K78
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
00770
International Designator
1964-014B
Decay Date
3/28/1964
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
SL-6 R/B
Alternative Name
Molniya 8K78(M) (N17) Blok-I
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
RVSN
Country
USSR
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
A rocket body, also commonly referred to as an upper stage or spent rocket stage, is the structural shell left behind after a rocket has delivered its payload to orbit. These large and often heavy pieces of space hardware can remain in orbit for years, posing significant collision hazards as part of the growing space debris problem. If left uncontrolled, rocket bodies have the potential to reenter Earth's atmosphere unpredictably, which can lead to falling debris in populated areas. Additionally, they risk colliding with operational satellites or the International Space Station, creating more debris and putting human life at risk.
Physical Characteristics
Length
9.4
Diameter
2.7
Span
9.4
Dry Mass
2000
Launch Mass
2000
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
8K78I
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
PROG
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Blok-I
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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