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Today's briefing covers an exciting new satellite launch, a significant reentry, and unexpected space debris from a fragmentation event.
DELTA 1 R/B(2) (08598)
COSPAR: 1976-004D | Alt Name: Delta 119 Stage 3
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
January 17, 1976
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC17B
Launch Vehicle
Delta 2914
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
08598
International Designator
1976-004D
Decay Date
9/4/1998
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
DELTA 1 R/B(2)
Alternative Name
Delta 119 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
1.7
Diameter
0.9
Span
1.7
Dry Mass
83
Launch Mass
1123
Shape
Sphere + Cone
Radar Cross Section
2
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Star 37E S/N 40032
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
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