OAO 3 DEB (06156)

COSPAR: 1972-065C | Alt Name: PEP Sun Baffle Cover
DECAYED

Image
OAO 3 DEB Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

August 21, 1972

Launch Pad

LC36B

Launch Vehicle

Atlas SLV-3C Centaur

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

06156

International Designator

1972-065C

Decay Date

1/7/1982

Basic Satellite Info

Name

OAO 3 DEB

Alternative Name

PEP Sun Baffle Cover

Type

Debris

Status

Space Junk

Owner

GSFC

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

0.65

Visual Magnitude

Unknown

Color

Unknown

Material Composition

Unknown

Technical Details

Payload

Sun Baffle Cover

Purpose

Unknown

Mission

Unknown

Manufacturer

GRUM

Life Expectancy

Unknown

Bus

OAO Cover

Configuration

Unknown

Motor

Unknown

Equipment

Unknown

Power System

Unknown

ADCS

Unknown

Transmitter Frequency

Unknown

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