OPS 8781 DEB (12859)

COSPAR: 1977-112H | Alt Name: SS 2 cover

DECAYED

Image

Additional Sources

Launch Details

Launch Date

December 8, 1977

Launch Site

AFWTR

Launch Pad

SLC3W

Launch Vehicle

Atlas F/MSD

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

12859

International Designator

1977-112H

Decay Date

Unknown

Basic Satellite Info

Name

OPS 8781 DEB

Alternative Name

SS 2 cover

Type

Debris

Status

Space Junk

Owner

Naval Research Laboratory

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary

Space debris, also known as space junk, encompasses all non-functional objects orbiting Earth such as defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, and fragments from collisions or disintegrations. Over time, this debris can accumulate and create an increasingly hazardous environment in orbit. Even tiny fragments, traveling at extremely high velocities, can inflict significant damage on operational satellites and spacecraft. If left unmanaged, the density of debris raises the risk of catastrophic collisions and further fragmentation, compounding the problem and threatening the safety and sustainability of space activities.

Physical Characteristics

Length

Diameter

Span

Dry Mass

Launch Mass

Shape

N/A

Radar Cross Section

Unknown

Visual Magnitude

Unknown

Color

Unknown

Material Composition

Unknown

Technical Details

Payload

SSU cover

Purpose

Unknown

Mission

Unknown

Manufacturer

Naval Research Laboratory

Life Expectancy

Unknown

Bus

SSU cover

Configuration

Unknown

Motor

Unknown

Equipment

Unknown

Power System

Unknown

ADCS

Unknown

Transmitter Frequency

Unknown

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