SATURN 1B DEB (02291)

COSPAR: 1966-059B | Alt Name: AS-203 Nosecone
DECAYED

Image
SATURN 1B DEB Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

July 5, 1966

Launch Pad

LC37B

Launch Vehicle

Uprated Saturn I

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

02291

International Designator

1966-059B

Decay Date

7/13/1966

Basic Satellite Info

Name

SATURN 1B DEB

Alternative Name

AS-203 Nosecone

Type

Debris

Status

Space Junk

Owner

MSFC

Country

United States

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

9.4

Diameter

6.6

Span

9.4

Dry Mass

1656

Launch Mass

1656

Shape

Cone

Radar Cross Section

Unknown

Visual Magnitude

Unknown

Color

Unknown

Material Composition

Unknown

Technical Details

Payload

Subcritical Cryo LN2 Expt

Purpose

Unknown

Mission

Unknown

Manufacturer

MSFC

Life Expectancy

Unknown

Bus

Fairing

Configuration

Unknown

Motor

Unknown

Equipment

Unknown

Power System

Unknown

ADCS

Unknown

Transmitter Frequency

Unknown

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