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.
WESTFORD NEEDLES (19032)
COSPAR: 1963-014DZ | Alt Name: West Ford dipoles
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 9, 1963
Launch Site
AFWTR
Launch Pad
LC1-2
Launch Vehicle
Atlas Agena B
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
19032
International Designator
1963-014DZ
Decay Date
8/27/1993
Basic Satellite Info
Name
WESTFORD NEEDLES
Alternative Name
West Ford dipoles
Type
Debris
Status
Space Junk
Owner
AFSSD
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
0
Diameter
0
Span
0
Dry Mass
0
Launch Mass
0
Shape
N/A
Radar Cross Section
0.0809
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
RCS 0.08
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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
X Report 14 Feb 2025
Starship testing progresses at the Cape; Lynk Global secures funding amidst rising satellite competition.
SpaceX and Starlink
This article delves into SpaceX's incredible journey from its inception to becoming a space industry leader, and its Starlink project's mission to provide global internet access.
Space Brief 5 Jun 2025
Today's brief highlights a significant geospatial data collaboration between Maxar and Saab, defense budget discussions affecting satellite deployments, and the naming of new military command chiefs.
X Report 25 Apr 2025
SpaceX launches Starlink satellites successfully, while Starbase inches closer to city status and business discussions intensify.
X Report 5 Aug 2025
SpaceX successfully launched 28 Starlink satellites while returning to form with Starship testing at Starbase. Meanwhile, preparations for upcoming launches are underway.
X Report 13 Apr 2025
SpaceX successfully launches 21 Starlink satellites and deploys a new batch of spy satellites for the US government.
X Report 28 Dec 2024
SpaceX wraps up a stellar year with Starship achievements and prepares for a lunar triple-shot in 2025.