DMSP 5D-2 F9 DEB (18956)

COSPAR: 1988-006E | Alt Name: deb DMSP F-9

DECAYED

Image

Additional Sources

Launch Details

Launch Date

February 3, 1988

Launch Site

AFWTR

Launch Pad

SLC3W

Launch Vehicle

Atlas E

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

18956

International Designator

1988-006E

Decay Date

2/2/1989

Basic Satellite Info

Name

DMSP 5D-2 F9 DEB

Alternative Name

deb DMSP F-9

Type

Debris

Status

Space Junk

Owner

AFSD

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

Diameter

Span

Dry Mass

Launch Mass

Shape

N/A

Radar Cross Section

0.15

Visual Magnitude

Unknown

Color

Unknown

Material Composition

Unknown

Technical Details

Payload

Unknown

Purpose

Unknown

Mission

Unknown

Manufacturer

Unknown

Life Expectancy

Unknown

Bus

Unknown

Configuration

Unknown

Motor

Unknown

Equipment

Unknown

Power System

Unknown

ADCS

Unknown

Transmitter Frequency

Unknown

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