Space Brief 14 May 2025
Today's edition covers China's latest launches in their classified satellite programs, ongoing discussions in the U.S. Senate on missile defense, and the ever-escalating space debris crisis threatening national security.
SL-11 R/B (18188)
COSPAR: 1987-060B | Alt Name: Tsiklon-2 29-813 Stage 2
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
July 10, 1987
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC90
Launch Vehicle
Tsiklon-2
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
18188
International Designator
1987-060B
Decay Date
7/11/1987
Basic Satellite Info
Name
SL-11 R/B
Alternative Name
Tsiklon-2 29-813 Stage 2
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
UNKS
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
10.9
Diameter
3
Span
10.9
Dry Mass
4000
Launch Mass
4000
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
11S692
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
YUZH
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
11S692
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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