Space Brief 23 Jan 2025
Today's briefing covers the U.S. Space Force's substantial investments in commercial satellite services, a strategic military shift, Chinese space station upgrades, and NASA's policy changes.
SL-6 R/B(1) (03006)
COSPAR: 1967-101C | Alt Name: Molniya 8K78(M) (N40) Blok-I
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
October 22, 1967
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC1
Launch Vehicle
Molniya 8K78
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
03006
International Designator
1967-101C
Decay Date
11/3/1967
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
SL-6 R/B(1)
Alternative Name
Molniya 8K78(M) (N40) 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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
C-Band
The workhorse frequency band that quietly powers satellite communications, weather radar, and Wi-Fi around the world
Space Brief 11 Apr 2025
Today's brief covers Millennium's milestone in missile defense, new satellite jammer for Space Force, budget increases for defense, delays in MEO satellite contracts, and potential impacts of Trump's latest order on Pentagon programs.
Space Brief 18 Apr 2025
Today's highlights include a Minotaur IV launch of U.S. spy satellites, Rocket Lab's new defense contracts, and the unveiling of Space Force's warfighting framework. Plus, the Satellite Spotlight dives into METEOR 3-1.
X Report 28 May 2025
Today marks significant milestones and setbacks for SpaceX as Starship Flight 9 completes a historic launch but ultimately suffers a loss of control. Additionally, a successful Starlink deployment continues to expand global internet coverage.
Space Brief 28 Feb 2025
Today's brief covers defense industry dynamics, advancements in quantum sensor technology, and geopolitical challenges impacting military space operations.
Space Brief 3 Nov 2024
Today focuses on Blue Origin's preparation for New Glenn's debut, SpaceX Crew-9's ISS maneuver, the importance of U.S.-China cooperation in space, and breathtaking ISS photography.
Space Brief 5 Sep 2024
Today we cover the final launch of Vega's original version, a significant milestone for SpaceX with the U.S. military, preparations for NASA's Starliner return, and more.