Space Brief 26 Aug 2024
Today's briefing covers an exciting new satellite launch, a significant reentry, and unexpected space debris from a fragmentation event.
ARIANE 3 R/B (20123)
COSPAR: 1989-053B | Alt Name: Ariane H10 V32
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
July 12, 1989
Launch Site
FRGUI
Launch Pad
ELA1
Launch Vehicle
Ariane 3
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
20123
International Designator
1989-053B
Decay Date
3/29/1994
Basic Satellite Info
Name
ARIANE 3 R/B
Alternative Name
Ariane H10 V32
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
AE
Country
France
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
11.8
Diameter
2.6
Span
11.8
Dry Mass
1820
Launch Mass
2000
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
10
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Ariane H10 S/N T28
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
AELM
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Ariane H10
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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