X Report 2 Jan 2025
SpaceX's 2024 launch surge sets global records, with Florida making history in the U.S. Find out how these achievements are shaping the commercial space race.
WESTFORD NEEDLES (03250)
COSPAR: 1963-014BQ | Alt Name: West Ford dipoles
DECAYED
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
03250
International Designator
1963-014BQ
Decay Date
1/18/1990
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
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
0.11
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
RCS 0.11
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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
The Day Destiny Changed the Space Station Forever
Twenty-four years ago, two spacewalking astronauts battled an ammonia leak while installing the U.S. Laboratory module Destiny, transforming the International Space Station from a construction site to a world-class research facility
Space Brief 20 Nov 2024
Today's highlights include the U.S. military's satellite initiative facing delays, Senate inquiries into high-profile calls, and an update on Pentagon's UFO investigations. Notable mentions also cover Morocco's defense sector ambitions.
X Report 24 Aug 2025
SpaceX successfully launched its CRS-33 Dragon cargo mission to the ISS, while preparations for the upcoming Starship Flight 10 continue, highlighting significant advancements in both cargo operations and test flight reliability.
X Report 16 Jun 2025
SpaceX progresses with plans for Starship launches from a ULA site while continuing its Starlink expansion. New satellite tracking update enhances user engagement.
X Report 8 Dec 2025
SpaceX faces weather challenges as it scrubs the launch of its 3,000th Starlink satellite. Meanwhile, Elon Musk discusses advancing to a Type II civilization in an engaging social media post.
The End of Free Skies | FAA Starts Charging for Rocket Launches
On April 22, 2026, the FAA published a final rule implementing per-launch user fees for commercial space transportation — the first time the U.S. government has charged payload-based fees for rocket launches. Starting at 25 cents per pound with a $30,000 cap, the fees are modest today. By 2033, they won't be.
Block 3 Starship Prep Accelerates at Starbase | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX accelerates Block 3 Starship pad work at Starbase as Russia preps Soyuz-5 debut alongside Falcon 9 internet satellite launches.