Space Brief 18 Nov 2025
Key updates on strategic military shifts, technological advancements, and a critical replacement mission for Chinese astronauts highlight today's space news.
M-3S2 R/B(1) (20449)
COSPAR: 1990-007C | Alt Name: M-3S2-5 Stage 3
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
January 24, 1990
Launch Site
KSCUT
Launch Pad
M1
Launch Vehicle
Mu-3S-II
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
20449
International Designator
1990-007C
Decay Date
1/26/1990
Basic Satellite Info
Name
M-3S2 R/B(1)
Alternative Name
M-3S2-5 Stage 3
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
ISASS
Country
Japan
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
2.7
Diameter
1.5
Span
2.7
Dry Mass
310
Launch Mass
310
Shape
Sphere + Cone
Radar Cross Section
3.03
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
M-3B
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
NISS
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
M-3B
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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