Space Brief 25 Sep 2025
Discover the latest developments in space defense, innovative satellite technologies, nuclear advancements in space travel, and strategic military updates.
SOLWIND DEB (16551)
COSPAR: 1979-017GJ | Alt Name: P78-1 debris
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
February 24, 1979
Launch Site
AFWTR
Launch Pad
SLC3W
Launch Vehicle
Atlas F/OIS
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
16551
International Designator
1979-017GJ
Decay Date
12/21/1996
Basic Satellite Info
Name
SOLWIND DEB
Alternative Name
P78-1 debris
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
Diameter
0
Span
0
Dry Mass
0
Launch Mass
0
Shape
N/A
Radar Cross Section
0.0128
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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
X Report 26 Jun 2025
SpaceX successfully launched the Ax-4 private astronaut mission to the ISS while continuing its satellite deployment with 27 new Starlink satellites, amidst ongoing recovery efforts from the loss of Ship 36.
Space Brief 14 Dec 2024
Today’s Space Brief covers significant developments such as SpaceX’s latest Starlink launch, the US Space Force testing modular satellite technology, and key long-range missile tests by the Pentagon.
X Report 18 Sep 2025
SpaceX gears up for a busy week with new Starship testing and enhanced Starlink capabilities on the horizon.
Space Brief 16 Oct 2024
In today's briefing: China accelerates its satellite megaconstellation. A comprehensive ESA-led optical data network is in the works, marking a key step in satellite communications. NASA's Artemis II crew visits Ohio in preparation for their lunar journey. SpaceX's record-breaking rocket launches continue. Plus, insights into nuclear rockets that could drastically shorten Mars missions.
X Report 4 Oct 2025
SpaceX continues to push forward with significant milestones, including the launch of additional Starlink satellites and progress on spectrum acquisitions.
Space Brief 16 Jun 2025
Today's update covers NASA's Ax-4 mission preparations, ESA's satellite imaging program, Ursa Major's military contract, and China's expanding nuclear arsenal.
X Report 30 Oct 2025
SpaceX continues to ramp up its operations with the launch of 29 more Starlink satellites, while significant upgrades at its Starbase facility signify ambitious future plans.