Space Brief 9 Feb 2025
Today's highlights include Rocket Lab's successful 2025 kick-off launch, SpaceX's upcoming Starlink deployment, and a significant military satellite contract competition.
SL-12 R/B(AUX MOTOR) (18579)
COSPAR: 1987-096E | Alt Name: DM2-29L SOZ-1
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
November 26, 1987
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC200/39
Launch Vehicle
Proton-K/DM-2
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
18579
International Designator
1987-096E
Decay Date
5/6/1991
Basic Satellite Info
Name
SL-12 R/B(AUX MOTOR)
Alternative Name
DM2-29L SOZ-1
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
1.1
Diameter
0.5
Span
1.1
Dry Mass
60
Launch Mass
120
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
3.96
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
SOZ
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
NPOE
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
SOZ
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.
SpaceX's Audacious Starship
As the largest and most powerful rocket ever built, it's designed for full reusability and rapid launch turnaround. SpaceX claims it could carry over 100 tons to low Earth orbit at a fraction of current costs.
The End of Free Skies | FAA Starts Charging for Rocket Launches
On April 22, 2026, the FAA published a final rule implementing per-launch user fees for commercial space transportation — the first time the U.S. government has charged payload-based fees for rocket launches. Starting at 25 cents per pound with a $30,000 cap, the fees are modest today. By 2033, they won't be.
Space Brief 5 Dec 2025
Focusing on military satellite initiatives, defense strategies, and advancements in air and cyber capabilities
Pentagon Pauses LEO Constellation as Acquisition Reviews Continue | KeepTrack Space Brief
Pentagon puts LEO constellation layers on hold during acquisition review. SpaceX and xAI join $100M autonomous drone contest. China's Zenk Space completes first stage static fire.
Space Brief 13 Apr 2025
SpaceX launches a doubleheader of satellites while Blue Origin prepares for a historic all-female spaceflight. Also, meet FORMOSAT-5 in our Satellite Spotlight.
Space Brief 10 Dec 2024
Today's highlights include a new 5G demonstration launch on Firefly, potential supply chain interruptions in the defense sector, and updates on Artemis and ULA launches.
X Report 17 Jan 2025
SpaceX marks another milestone and setback with Starship Flight 7, achieving a successful booster catch but losing the upper stage during ascent.