The Day America's Spy Satellites Gained New Eyes
Sixty-three years ago, a Thor-Agena rocket launched the first dual-camera reconnaissance satellite, revolutionizing space-based intelligence while hiding behind the final use of a famous cover name
DMSP 5D-2 F7 DEB (14609)
COSPAR: 1983-113D | Alt Name: DMSP F-7 OLS Cover
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
November 18, 1983
Launch Site
AFWTR
Launch Pad
SLC3W
Launch Vehicle
Atlas E
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
14609
International Designator
1983-113D
Decay Date
6/19/1992
Basic Satellite Info
Name
DMSP 5D-2 F7 DEB
Alternative Name
DMSP F-7 OLS Cover
Type
Debris
Status
Space Junk
Owner
AFSD
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
0.4
Diameter
1
Span
1
Dry Mass
5
Launch Mass
5
Shape
Disk
Radar Cross Section
0.19
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Unknown
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
Unknown
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Unknown
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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