Space Brief 2 Sep 2025
Today's brief covers key topics such as SpaceX's latest Starlink launch, the European Space Agency's new initiatives, and Space Force's integration of AI into its operations.
USA 41 (20172)
COSPAR: 1989-061C | Alt Name: USA 41
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
August 8, 1989
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39B
Launch Vehicle
Space Shuttle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
20172
International Designator
1989-061C
Decay Date
Unknown
Basic Satellite Info
Name
USA 41
Alternative Name
USA 41
Type
Payload
Status
Unknown
Owner
NRO/SAFSP
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
USA 41, also known as MPEC, is an American satellite launched on August 8, 1989, from Launch Complex 39B at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station aboard a Space Shuttle. It was manufactured by BALL and owned by NRO/SAFSP. The satellite has dimensions of 0.5 meters in length, diameter, and span with a dry mass of 125 kilograms, identical to its launch mass. Its mission and purpose are described as "Technology ?", suggesting an experimental or technological testing role. It was deployed with the GLORIA I payload and stabilized by August 9, 1989. The satellite has a polyhedral shape but lacks specific details on equipment, power systems, or operational frequencies.
Physical Characteristics
Length
0.5
Diameter
0.5
Span
0.5
Dry Mass
125
Launch Mass
125
Shape
Poly
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
GLORIA I
Purpose
Technology ?
Mission
Technology ?
Manufacturer
BALL
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
MPEC
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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