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SBS 2 R/B [PAM-D] (12874)
COSPAR: 1981-096B | Alt Name: Delta 156 PAM-D
DECAYED
Image
![SBS 2 R/B [PAM-D] Satellite Image](/images/sat/rocket2.jpg)
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
September 24, 1981
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC17A
Launch Vehicle
Delta 3910/PAM
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
12874
International Designator
1981-096B
Decay Date
4/12/1982
Basic Satellite Info
Name
SBS 2 R/B [PAM-D]
Alternative Name
Delta 156 PAM-D
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
2
Diameter
1.2
Span
2
Dry Mass
132
Launch Mass
2141
Shape
Sphere + Cone
Radar Cross Section
0.31
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Star 48 S/N 10007-8
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
THKE
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Star 48
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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