Space Brief 20 Mar 2025
Today's brief highlights critical discussions in military space readiness, potential satellite 'dogfighting' scenarios, international defense collaborations, and a notable communications satellite launch.
DELTA 1 R/B(1) (11116)
COSPAR: 1978-106B | Alt Name: Delta 146
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
November 19, 1978
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC17B
Launch Vehicle
Delta 2914
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
11116
International Designator
1978-106B
Decay Date
12/12/1978
Basic Satellite Info
Name
DELTA 1 R/B(1)
Alternative Name
Delta 146
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
6
Diameter
1.4
Span
6
Dry Mass
845
Launch Mass
845
Shape
Cyl + Skirt + Nozzle
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Delta SSPU DSV-3P-4
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
MDAC
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Delta/TR-201
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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