Space Brief 5 Oct 2025
Today's brief covers significant advancements in national security space launches, ongoing rocket developments, and critical updates from the space industry.
DELTA 1 R/B(2) (08702)
COSPAR: 1976-017C | Alt Name: Delta 120 Stage 3
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
February 19, 1976
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC17B
Launch Vehicle
Delta 2914
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
08702
International Designator
1976-017C
Decay Date
11/27/1982
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Basic Satellite Info
Name
DELTA 1 R/B(2)
Alternative Name
Delta 120 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
3.9426
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Star 37E S/N 40041
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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