The Day America's Spy Satellites Gained New Eyes
Sixty-three years ago, a Thor-Agena rocket launched the first dual-camera reconnaissance satellite, revolutionizing space-based intelligence while hiding behind the final use of a famous cover name
SCOUT B R/B (05318)
COSPAR: 1971-058B | Alt Name: Scout S177C Stage 4
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
July 8, 1971
Launch Site
WLPIS
Launch Pad
LA3A
Launch Vehicle
Scout B
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
05318
International Designator
1971-058B
Decay Date
1/28/1976
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
SCOUT B R/B
Alternative Name
Scout S177C Stage 4
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
LARCN
Country
United States
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
1.5
Diameter
0.5
Span
1.5
Dry Mass
47
Launch Mass
47
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
FW4S S/N 2223-7
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
UTC
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
FW4
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
FW4S
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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