New Glenn Upper Stage Fails, BlueBird 7 Lost, Space Brief 20 Apr 2026
New Glenn's upper stage malfunctioned April 19, stranding AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird 7; the satellite is lost. Vulcan may fly without solid boosters.
SL-6 PLAT (20769)
COSPAR: 1990-076C | Alt Name: BOZ
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
August 28, 1990
Launch Site
PLMSC
Launch Pad
LC43/4
Launch Vehicle
Molniya 8K78M-PVB
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
20769
International Designator
1990-076C
Decay Date
9/11/1990
Basic Satellite Info
Name
SL-6 PLAT
Alternative Name
BOZ
Type
Debris
Status
Space Junk
Owner
RVSN
Country
USSR
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
1
Diameter
2.3
Span
1
Dry Mass
328
Launch Mass
328
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
7.27
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
BOZ
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
NPOE
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
BOZ
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.
Space Brief 9 Sep 2025
Explore the latest advancements in satellite technology, military satellite applications, and collaborative efforts in hypersonic vehicle tracking. Discover the transformative power of new deals shaping global communication networks.
NROL-72 Spy Satellites Launched; Starlink PNT Blocked | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX's 13th NRO proliferated-arch mission lifted off May 11 as Starlink shuts its GPS-rival feature ahead of a looming IPO.
Space Brief 7 Nov 2025
Today's brief highlights a landmark cooperation between NASA and China to prevent satellite collision, strategic steps in American space leadership through nuclear energy, a U.S. military missile test, and more.
X Report 24 Nov 2025
SpaceX successfully launches 28 Starlink satellites on a new Falcon 9 rocket from California, marking a significant milestone for their satellite constellation.
SpaceX Starfall Reentry Vehicle Plans Revealed by FAA | KeepTrack X Report
FAA documents expose SpaceX's Starfall reentry vehicle program, targeting in-space manufacturing support as the Starlink constellation holds 10,397 working satellites.
X Report 21 Oct 2025
NASA considers opening the Artemis 3 lander to new bids as delays surface, while SpaceX gears up for multiple Falcon 9 launches this week and secures a redevelopment nod for SLC-6.
X Report 17 Jan 2025
SpaceX marks another milestone and setback with Starship Flight 7, achieving a successful booster catch but losing the upper stage during ascent.