Space Brief 18 Nov 2024
Today’s Space Brief covers the deployment of a new optical sensor for the Space Force, SpaceX's recent Starlink satellite launch, and significant investment in space cargo vehicles.
SL-6 R/B(2) (00869)
COSPAR: 1964-049D | Alt Name: Kosmos-41
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
August 22, 1964
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC1
Launch Vehicle
Molniya 8K78
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
00869
International Designator
1964-049D
Decay Date
4/9/2004
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
SL-6 R/B(2)
Alternative Name
Kosmos-41
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
OKB1
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
4.4
Diameter
1.4
Span
8.6
Dry Mass
1620
Launch Mass
1650
Shape
Cyl + 6 Pan
Radar Cross Section
5.6235
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Molniya-1 No. 1L
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
OKB1
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Molniya-1
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
KDU-414
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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