USA 15 DEB (16630)

COSPAR: 1986-014G | Alt Name: USA-18 cover
DECAYED

Image
USA 15 DEB Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

February 9, 1986

Launch Site

AFWTR

Launch Pad

SLC3E

Launch Vehicle

Atlas H

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

16630

International Designator

1986-014G

Decay Date

2/6/2022

Basic Satellite Info

Name

USA 15 DEB

Alternative Name

USA-18 cover

Type

Debris

Status

Space Junk

Owner

Naval Research Laboratory

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

Unknown

Visual Magnitude

Unknown

Color

Unknown

Material Composition

Unknown

Technical Details

Payload

SSU cover

Purpose

Unknown

Mission

Unknown

Manufacturer

MM

Life Expectancy

Unknown

Bus

SSU cover

Configuration

Unknown

Motor

Unknown

Equipment

Unknown

Power System

Unknown

ADCS

Unknown

Transmitter Frequency

Unknown

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