The Day Fiery Failure Launched NASA
Sixty-eight years ago, America's first satellite exploded on the launchpad in front of the entire world. But from the ashes of Vanguard TV-3 came the determination that would eventually win the Space Race.
DELTA 1 R/B(2) (05978)
COSPAR: 1968-116B | Alt Name: Delta 63 Stage 3
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
December 19, 1968
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC17A
Launch Vehicle
Thor Delta M
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
05978
International Designator
1968-116B
Decay Date
1/26/2005
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
DELTA 1 R/B(2)
Alternative Name
Delta 63 Stage 3
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
GSFC
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
Diameter
0.9
Span
1
Dry Mass
65
Launch Mass
718
Shape
Sphere + Cone
Radar Cross Section
1.2542
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Star 37D S/N 011
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
THKE
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Star 37
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.
Gunter's Space Page
Why this unassuming website has become the backbone of space research for enthusiasts and professionals alike
Your Phone Already Talks to Space
SpaceX quietly built the world's largest 4G network without a single cell tower. Over 650 satellites now connect standard smartphones directly from orbit, and most people carrying compatible phones don't know the service exists.
Space Brief 11 Dec 2025
Today's brief highlights key developments in space technology, military space activities, and satellite refueling initiatives. Discover the latest on GEO satellite refueling, Blue Origin's New Glenn, and more.
Space Brief 22 Nov 2025
Today's brief covers Blue Origin's national security mission, a new missile interceptor project by Space Force, developments with Starship boosters, and more.
Space Brief 27 Mar 2025
Today's highlights include the certification of ULA's Vulcan rocket for national security missions, developments in nuclear timekeeping for GPS systems, and updates on the Space Force's new warfighting framework.
Falcon 9 Booster Sets 33-Flight Reuse Record, X Report 23 Feb 2026
Falcon 9 booster reuse record: SpaceX's most-flown booster flew a 33rd flight Feb 21 with 28 Starlink V2 Minis. Two launches in a day; 9,779 on orbit.
Space Brief 4 Sep 2025
Today's briefing covers a surprise launch by Israel, a milestone missile contract for Lockheed Martin, and updates on Indian missile defense strategies.