Space Brief 9 Jan 2025
Today's briefing includes new appointments in U.S. military and defense sectors, X-37B's continued mission, and international policy shifts affecting satellite technology sales.
SL-12 R/B(2) (05490)
COSPAR: N/A | Alt Name: Blok D No. 400L
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
September 28, 1971
Launch Site
Launch Pad
Unknown
Launch Vehicle
Unknown
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
05490
International Designator
N/A
Decay Date
Unknown
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
SL-12 R/B(2)
Alternative Name
Blok D No. 400L
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
5.8
Diameter
4.1
Span
5.8
Dry Mass
1800
Launch Mass
13360
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
11S824
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
TSKBEM
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Blok D
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.
X Report 5 Apr 2025
SpaceX secures major U.S. military contracts, Fram2 concludes historic mission, and preparations for another Starlink launch.
NASA Tests Artemis 2 Fueling, Saudi Unveils DebriSolver Winners | KeepTrack Space Brief
NASA conducts critical Artemis 2 rocket fueling test. Saudi Space Agency announces global DebriSolver competition winners. SpaceX and Bezos push orbital data center plans.
The Day That Changed How We Navigate Forever
Forty-seven years ago, an Atlas rocket carried the first GPS satellite into orbit, launching a revolution in navigation that would transform daily life across the globe
X Report 12 Dec 2025
SpaceX makes headlines with record-breaking launch operations, while plans for an IPO signal major changes in the company's trajectory and could inspire industry-wide movements.
Falcon 9 Booster Hits Record 35th Flight | KeepTrack X Report
A Falcon 9 booster sets a reusability record on its 35th flight during the Starlink 10-35 mission, the constellation's 53rd dedicated launch.
Space Force Awards $54.5M to Starfish Space for GEO Servicing | KeepTrack Space Brief
Space Force awards $54.5M to Starfish Space for GEO satellite servicing vehicle. Artemis II heads to launch pad for first crewed Moon flyby in 54 years. Crew-12 confirmed.
Space Brief 30 Aug 2024
Today's highlights include General Dynamics' contract extension with SDA, ABL Space Systems layoffs, NASA's Crew-9 mission adjustments, and Galactic Energy's successful satellite launch.