Space Brief 21 Jan 2025
Today's Space Brief highlights a SpaceX launch of Starlink satellites, international efforts to tackle space debris, and innovative lunar power solutions from China.
SL-4 R/B (15122)
COSPAR: 1984-074B | Alt Name: Soyuz-U 46-149 Blok-I
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
July 19, 1984
Launch Site
PLMSC
Launch Pad
LC43/4
Launch Vehicle
Soyuz-U
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
15122
International Designator
1984-074B
Decay Date
7/28/1984
Basic Satellite Info
Name
SL-4 R/B
Alternative Name
Soyuz-U 46-149 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
6.7
Diameter
2.7
Span
6.7
Dry Mass
2350
Launch Mass
2350
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
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.
FCC Approves Reflect Orbital Sunlight Satellite | KeepTrack Space Brief
FCC clears Reflect Orbital's first satellite to bounce sunlight into nighttime zones, despite pushback from astronomers concerned about orbital streaking and wildlife impacts.
Space Brief 15 Jan 2025
Focus on Varda's second mission launch, new U.S. Defense Department tool for satellite anomaly investigation, and a detailed Satellite Spotlight on CELESTIS 21/Varisat 1C.
Space Brief 13 Jul 2025
Today's Space Brief covers key topics including new defense mandates for space, Firefly Aerospace's public filing, major funding for Varda Space Industries, and updates on SpaceX's Crew-11 mission and a mystery satellite launch.
Space Brief 7 Apr 2025
Today's highlights include new ESA Euclid data, upcoming Blue Origin flight, and multiple Starlink launches, delivering fresh satellite tracking opportunities.
X Report 3 Dec 2024
Starship developments continue to capture attention alongside Starlink's latest deployment milestones.
X Report 11 Nov 2024
SpaceX to launch Koreasat-6A on a record-tying Falcon 9 flight, and 24 Starlink satellites later today.
Vulcan Grounded as GEM 63XL Booster Passes Test | KeepTrack Space Brief
ULA's Vulcan remains grounded after February in-flight GEM 63XL booster anomaly. Northrop Grumman completed successful static fire test, but investigation ongoing with no return-to-flight date.