X Report 2 Feb 2025
SpaceX successfully launched 43 Starlink satellites across two missions, marking significant achievements at Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg Space Force Bases.
MAGELLAN (19969)
COSPAR: 1989-033B | Alt Name: Magellan
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 4, 1989
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39B
Launch Vehicle
Space Shuttle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
19969
International Designator
1989-033B
Decay Date
10/14/1994
Basic Satellite Info
Name
MAGELLAN
Alternative Name
Magellan
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
JPL
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
MAGELLAN (also known as Magellan) is a Venus orbiter satellite operated by JPL and manufactured by MMD. Launched on May 4, 1989, from LC39B at AFETR using the Space Shuttle launch vehicle, it has dimensions of 4.6 meters in length, 3.7 meters in diameter, and a span of 9.2 meters. The satellite had a launch mass of 1207 kg and a dry mass of 1035 kg. It was powered by two deployable solar arrays and batteries. MAGELLAN's mission lasted for approximately 5.5 years after achieving stability on May 5, 1989. Its shape is described as Box + Dish + 2 Pan, with its payload designated VRM. The satellite carried the MOTOR MR-104 and was designed to orbit Venus, capturing data during its mission.
Physical Characteristics
Length
4.6
Diameter
3.7
Span
9.2
Dry Mass
1035
Launch Mass
1207
Shape
Box + Dish + 2 Pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
VRM
Purpose
Venus orbiter
Mission
Venus orbiter
Manufacturer
MMD
Life Expectancy
5.5 years
Bus
MGN
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
MR-104
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
2 deployable solar arrays, batteries
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
SpaceX IPO Surges 20%; China Debuts Tallest Rocket | KeepTrack Space Brief
SpaceX shares jump 20% on first trading day after historic IPO. China launches tallest rocket while LandSpace preps second landing attempt. Tracking data.
Space Brief 10 Nov 2024
Long March 2C launches four PIESAT-2 radar satellites, Gilmour Space secures Australia's first orbital launch permit, NASA extends ISS cargo contracts through 2030, ESA and Arianespace face industry crossroads.
Space Brief 10 May 2025
Today's brief covers Rocket Lab's Neutron being selected for military tests, Space Force's strategic updates, Germany's SAR satellite plans, and a significant NASA nomination.
X Report 7 Feb 2025
DIU explores SpaceX Starship's in-space refueling; Investors advise startups against competing or emulating SpaceX.
DARPA Robotic GEO Servicer Targeting Summer 2026 Launch | KeepTrack Space Brief
DARPA's robotic satellite servicing mission targets GEO orbit by summer 2026. NASA adds six SpaceX crew missions as Boeing Starliner remains uncertified.
X Report 26 Nov 2025
This edition highlights SpaceX's ambitious plans for Starship in light of recent developments, a busy launch week featuring multiple missions, and the latest updates on Starlink's operational status.
X Report 13 Dec 2024
SpaceX ramps up Starship preparations in Florida while California prepares for another Starlink launch.