Space Brief 18 Aug 2025
Today's Space Brief covers significant satellite launches by SpaceX, an automated collision avoidance system development, Rocket Lab's strategic acquisition, and the rise of corporate-named satellites in orbit.
Launch Date
December 12, 1984
Launch Site
AFWTR
Launch Pad
SLC3W
Launch Vehicle
Atlas E
NORAD ID
15441
International Designator
1984-123C
Decay Date
11/11/1992
Name
NOAA 9 DEB
Alternative Name
NOAA 9 solar array band
Type
Status
Owner
GSFC
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Length
0
Diameter
0
Span
0
Dry Mass
0
Launch Mass
0
Shape
N/A
Radar Cross Section
0.0634
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
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
Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Today's Space Brief covers significant satellite launches by SpaceX, an automated collision avoidance system development, Rocket Lab's strategic acquisition, and the rise of corporate-named satellites in orbit.
Boeing's Starliner spacecraft encounters thruster problems and helium leaks during its first crewed mission, potentially delaying the return of NASA astronauts from the International Space Station.
SpaceX prepares for a monumental sixth Starship test flight while achieving a historic Falcon 9 booster landing. Meanwhile, a Starlink satellite lights up the night sky as it reenters Earth's atmosphere.
SpaceX sets a new reusability record and continues its busy launch schedule with multiple Starlink missions.
Starlink satellite count for April 2026: 10,177 in orbit, 10,168 working from 11,724 launched. No new anomalies, four reentries expected Apr 5-7.
SpaceX wins a $4.16 billion Space Force satellite contract to track airborne threats worldwide, while dual-pad launches add 53 Starlink satellites.
A fatality at SpaceX's Starbase shakes the program as Starship V3, standing 124 m tall with Raptor 3 engines, nears its maiden flight.
Historic launches mark a transformative week in aerospace, with major milestones achieved by Isar Aerospace, SpaceX, and Botswana's entry into space. Significant advancements in reusability and European capabilities highlight key developments.