Space Brief 27 Aug 2024
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SL-12 R/B(2) (17910)
COSPAR: 1987-036G | Alt Name: Blok DM-2 No. 18L
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
April 24, 1987
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC200/40
Launch Vehicle
Proton-K/DM-2
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
17910
International Designator
1987-036G
Decay Date
4/12/1991
Basic Satellite Info
Name
SL-12 R/B(2)
Alternative Name
Blok DM-2 No. 18L
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
6.3
Diameter
3.7
Span
6.3
Dry Mass
2440
Launch Mass
17490
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
24.09
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
11S861 No. 18L
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
NPOE
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Blok DM
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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