Space Brief 11 Feb 2025
Today's highlights include the debut of a new Chinese rocket, a successful Starlink launch, and concerns about Artemis 3. We also cover DoD developments and a notable SpaceX milestone.
SL-6 R/B(1) (12304)
COSPAR: 1981-016B | Alt Name: Molniya-M 47-549 Blok-I
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
February 19, 1981
Launch Site
PLMSC
Launch Pad
LC16/2
Launch Vehicle
Molniya 8K78M
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
12304
International Designator
1981-016B
Decay Date
3/13/1981
Basic Satellite Info
Name
SL-6 R/B(1)
Alternative Name
Molniya-M 47-549 Blok-I
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
RVSN
Country
USSR
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
7.2
Diameter
2.7
Span
7.2
Dry Mass
2700
Launch Mass
2700
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
18.24
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
11S510
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
PROG
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Blok-I
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
The Day Humanity's First Modular Space Station Reached Orbit
Thirty-nine years ago, a Proton rocket carried the core of the Mir space station into orbit, launching an unprecedented era of continuous human presence in space and international cooperation
X Report 22 Nov 2025
Major challenges emerged with SpaceX's next-generation Starship booster testing, while Starlink deployments continued with successful launches.
Space Force Eyes Space Tugs, On-Orbit Refueling by 2030 | KeepTrack Space Brief
Space Force commits to operational space tugs and on-orbit refueling by 2030. New capabilities will complicate conjunction analysis for GEO and MEO satellite tracking.
X Report 4 Apr 2025
SpaceX gears up for Starship's ninth flight with a reused booster, Fram2 astronauts share stunning orbital views, and SpaceX secures new NASA contracts for the Starship.
X Report 2 Jun 2025
SpaceX delays the launch of 23 Starlink satellites due to geomagnetic storm concerns, adjusting the schedule for an upcoming Falcon 9 mission.
Space Brief 23 Dec 2025
Today's briefing covers the Long March 12A's first launch, a major advance in space radio communication, and highlights from key military developments impacting space operations.
Space Brief 1 Jun 2025
Today's highlights cover critical satellite launches including SpaceX's GPS III mission, advancements in SATCOM technology, and changes in NASA leadership.