X Report 22 Dec 2025
SpaceX celebrates a year of industry milestones, including the successful deployment of Starlink satellites and innovative advancements in rocket technology.
STS 38 (20935)
COSPAR: 1990-097A | Alt Name: Atlantis (STS-38)
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
November 15, 1990
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Space Shuttle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
20935
International Designator
1990-097A
Decay Date
11/20/1990
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STS 38
Alternative Name
Atlantis (STS-38)
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
JSC
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
STS 38, also known as Atlantis (STS-38), is a US satellite launched on November 15, 1990, from LC39A at AFETR using the Space Shuttle as its launch vehicle. It has a winged orbiter configuration and measures 37.3 meters in length and span with a diameter of 23.8 meters. The spacecraft was manufactured by RWI and is equipped with fuel cells and batteries for power, operating as a crewed spacecraft. Its dry mass is 84,297 kg, while its launch mass was 92,293 kg. The satellite's shape is described as box-like with two wings and fins. It was launched from the Johnson Space Center (JSC) and carried OV-104 as its payload.
Physical Characteristics
Length
37.3
Diameter
23.8
Span
37.3
Dry Mass
84297
Launch Mass
92293
Shape
Box + 2 Wing + Fin
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
OV-104
Purpose
Crewed Spacecraft
Mission
Crewed Spacecraft
Manufacturer
RWI
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
STS OV
Configuration
Winged orbiter
Motor
2 x OME (AJ10-190)
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Fuel cells, batteries
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
X Report 21 Aug 2025
Today's brief highlights the upcoming X-37B military spaceplane launch, ongoing partnerships to protect radio astronomy, and West Virginia's minimal allocation of broadband subsidies to satellite providers like SpaceX.
Space Brief 22 Apr 2025
Today's brief highlights key advancements in space technology and innovative military initiatives. Featuring deep space tracking system upgrades, a push towards quantum communications in orbit, and critical radar developments.
Space Brief 23 Oct 2024
Today's brief shines a light on surging space debris due to a new satellite breakup, SpaceX's continuous Starlink expansions, and notable legal support for Elon Musk's launch endeavors.
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 18 Jul 2025
Elon Musk provided updates on the anticipated Starship Flight 10, along with insights on SpaceX's progress at Cape Canaveral. Key developments include target timelines for upcoming launches and ongoing efforts in Starship's development.
X Report 2 Jul 2025
SpaceX achieved significant milestones with the launch of its 500th Falcon 9 rocket and the deployment of a European weather satellite, showcasing its ongoing impact in space exploration and satellite technology.
Space Brief 18 Dec 2025
Today's updates cover Rocket Lab's launch for the U.S. Space Force, Digantara's major funding round, and discussions on national security in space.