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Today's brief covers significant advancements in space satellite launches, military spending impacts on space, and notable developments from the Space Force and SpaceX.
DELTA 1 R/B (18848)
COSPAR: 1988-008B | Alt Name: Delta 181 Sensor Module
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
February 8, 1988
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC17B
Launch Vehicle
Delta 3910
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
18848
International Designator
1988-008B
Decay Date
4/2/1988
Basic Satellite Info
Name
DELTA 1 R/B
Alternative Name
Delta 181 Sensor Module
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
SDIO
Country
United States
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
3.7
Diameter
2.4
Span
3.7
Dry Mass
2280
Launch Mass
2280
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
41.84
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Thrusted V. Sensor Module
Purpose
SDI Experiments
Mission
SDI Experiments
Manufacturer
APL
Life Expectancy
2 days
Bus
SDIO Delta 181
Configuration
Instruments on Delta 2nd stage
Motor
?
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Batteries
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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