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Today's brief covers next-generation missile defense strategies, NASA's Dream Chaser contract updates, and technological advances in Air Force cyber defense.
ATLAS AGENA B R/B (00218)
COSPAR: 1961-035B | Alt Name: S.T. LOW
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
December 22, 1961
Launch Site
AFWTR
Launch Pad
LC1-2
Launch Vehicle
Atlas Agena B
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
00218
International Designator
1961-035B
Decay Date
12/31/1961
Basic Satellite Info
Name
ATLAS AGENA B R/B
Alternative Name
S.T. LOW
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
SAFSP
Country
United States
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
0.1
Diameter
0.2
Span
0.2
Dry Mass
5
Launch Mass
5
Shape
Box
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
AFTRACK 18 (S.T. LOW)
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
CHAIL
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
AFTRACK
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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