New Glenn Static Fire Anomaly Grounds Amazon Launch | KeepTrack Space Brief
Blue Origin's New Glenn suffered catastrophic anomaly during static fire test at LC-36. Amazon LEO satellites pulled; NASA lunar missions now in question.
WESTFORD NEEDLES (02997)
COSPAR: 1963-014AU | Alt Name: West Ford dipoles
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 9, 1963
Launch Site
AFWTR
Launch Pad
LC1-2
Launch Vehicle
Atlas Agena B
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
02997
International Designator
1963-014AU
Epoch
Fri, 17 Jul 2026 07:45:12 GMT
Apogee
Calculating...
Perigee
Calculating...
Inclination
86.75°
Right Ascension
161.24°
Eccentricity
Calculating...
Argument of Perigee
203.19°
Period
163.98 min
Mean Motion
8.78 rev/day
Latitude
Calculating...
Longitude
Calculating...
Altitude
Calculating...
Velocity
Calculating...
Polar Plot
3D Visualization
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
WESTFORD NEEDLES
Alternative Name
West Ford dipoles
Type
Debris
Status
Space Junk
Owner
AFSSD
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 02997U 63014AU 26198.32306220 .00000459 00000+0 11354+0 0 9995
2 02997 86.7450 161.2362 0990222 203.1861 152.1220 08.78137986319110
Source: Celestrak
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
0
Diameter
0
Span
0
Dry Mass
0
Launch Mass
0
Shape
N/A
Radar Cross Section
0.2016
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
RCS 0.22
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
Unknown
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Unknown
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
Map
Next Pass
Azimuth Elevation Time (Local)
Start Azimuth
Max Elevation
Stop Azimuth
Time Until
Pass Duration
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Space Brief 3 Feb 2025
Today's brief covers SpaceX's continued Starlink expansions, Japan's successful Michibiki satellite launch, and challenges faced by India's navigation satellite. Stay updated on crucial satellite events and launches.
Space Brief 20 Jun 2025
Today's brief covers the nomination of a new Space Force leader, partnership efforts by Lockheed, Sweden's defense budget delay, Israeli military actions, Proba-3's imaging breakthrough, and Starlink's license to operate in India.
Space Brief 24 Nov 2024
Today's briefing covers Blue Origin's New Glenn nearing its first launch, SpaceX's 400th Falcon 9 mission with Starlink satellites, advancements in space-based weather prediction, and more.
The Day Columbia's Crew Shared Their Vision of Peace
Twenty-two years ago, the crew of Space Shuttle Columbia awakened to John Lennon's 'Imagine' and shared a profound message about unity and peace that would become part of their enduring legacy
X Report 22 Dec 2024
SpaceX successfully launches two rideshare missions to mid-inclination orbits, expanding their satellite deployment capabilities.
SpaceX Starfall Secret Capsule Targets Space Manufacturing | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX's disk-shaped Starfall reentry vehicle debuts as the constellation hits 10,671 working satellites across low Earth orbit.
X Report 18 Sep 2025
SpaceX gears up for a busy week with new Starship testing and enhanced Starlink capabilities on the horizon.