GOES 4 AKM (11970)

COSPAR: 1980-074C | Alt Name: Star 27 S/N 0020

Image
GOES 4 AKM Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

September 9, 1980

Launch Pad

LC17A

Launch Vehicle

Delta 3914

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

11970

International Designator

1980-074C

Epoch

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 00:22:39 GMT

Apogee

Calculating...

Perigee

Calculating...

Inclination

16.34°

Right Ascension

314.29°

Eccentricity

Calculating...

Argument of Perigee

265.99°

Period

1766.09 min

Mean Motion

0.82 rev/day

Latitude

Calculating...

Longitude

Calculating...

Altitude

Calculating...

Velocity

Calculating...

Polar Plot
3D Visualization
Basic Satellite Info

Name

GOES 4 AKM

Alternative Name

Star 27 S/N 0020

Type

Rocket Body

Status

Space Junk

Owner

GSFC

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Latest TLEs
1 11970U 80074C   26185.01573900 -.00000172  00000-0  00000-0 0  9995
2 11970  16.3384 314.2878 1636901 265.9884  87.7741  0.81535997 38660

Source: Celestrak

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

1.2

Diameter

0.7

Span

1.2

Dry Mass

50

Launch Mass

440

Shape

Cyl

Radar Cross Section

0.003

Visual Magnitude

Unknown

Color

Unknown

Material Composition

Unknown

Technical Details

Payload

Star 27 TE-M-616-5

Purpose

Unknown

Mission

Unknown

Manufacturer

THKE

Life Expectancy

Unknown

Bus

Star 27

Configuration

Unknown

Motor

Unknown

Equipment

Unknown

Power System

Unknown

ADCS

Unknown

Transmitter Frequency

Unknown

Map
This tool will help you track the satellite's position and predict its upcoming passes over your location. Simply input the coordinates or click the geolocation button to get started.
Next Pass
Azimuth Elevation Time (Local)
Start Azimuth
Max Elevation
Stop Azimuth
Time Until
Pass Duration

Satellite Articles

View All Posts »

Learn more about satellites and other related topics.

X Report 27 Sep 2025

X Report 27 Sep 2025

SpaceX continues to make strides in both its Starship program and Starlink satellite deployments, with a successful launch of 24 Starlink satellites and preparations for upcoming missions.

The Day a Giant Space Balloon United the Cold War

The Day a Giant Space Balloon United the Cold War

When a 135-foot inflatable mirror bounced a radio signal from England to Russia, it became the first joint US-Soviet space venture - and changed how we think about satellite communication.

Space Brief 1 Aug 2025

Space Brief 1 Aug 2025

Today's Space Brief covers a crucial weather data decision by the U.S. Defense Department, an innovative power supply for aerospace systems, advancements in satellite link technology, and Norway's maritime surveillance. AI/ML tools for airspace management and concerns about defense testing capabilities are also highlighted.

Space Beyond Books SpaceX Rideshare for Memorial Cubesat Mission | KeepTrack X Report

Space Beyond Books SpaceX Rideshare for Memorial Cubesat Mission | KeepTrack X Report

Space Beyond secures SpaceX rideshare launch slot for October 2027 memorial cubesat mission. Starlink constellation at 11,009 total satellites launched with 9,551 currently on orbit.

Virgin Galactic's Upcoming "Galactic 06" Spaceflight

Virgin Galactic's Upcoming "Galactic 06" Spaceflight

On January 26, 2024, Virgin Galactic's "Galactic 06" mission will launch, marking its 11th spaceflight.

Space Brief 10 Apr 2025

Space Brief 10 Apr 2025

Key topics today include the US Space Force's new international strategy, China's partnership with Pakistan for astronaut training, and conservation concerns over SpaceX landing proposals.

China Caps Record Year With 92 Orbital Launches, New Reusable Rocket Planned | KeepTrack Space Brief

China Caps Record Year With 92 Orbital Launches, New Reusable Rocket Planned | KeepTrack Space Brief

China hits record 92 orbital launches in 2025. Vandenberg opens new launch site for providers. Former ULA CEO Tory Bruno joins Blue Origin for national security projects.

X Report 14 Jan 2025

X Report 14 Jan 2025

SpaceX sets a new reusability record and continues its busy launch schedule with multiple Starlink missions.