Space Brief 31 Jul 2025
Today's Space Brief brings updates on the U.S. Space Force's upcoming missions, in-space technology strategies, the challenges faced by new launchers, and advancements in satellite communication.
M-3S2 R/B (22522)
COSPAR: 1993-011B | Alt Name: M-3S2-7 Stage 3
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
February 20, 1993
Launch Site
KSCUT
Launch Pad
M1
Launch Vehicle
Mu-3S-II
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
22522
International Designator
1993-011B
Decay Date
12/11/2003
Basic Satellite Info
Name
M-3S2 R/B
Alternative Name
M-3S2-7 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
3.2558
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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
X Report 17 Mar 2025
SpaceX's Crew-10 mission safely docks with the ISS, setting up for a crew rotation. Starlink continues its global expansion with additional satellite deployments.
SpaceX IPO at $1.77T as SDA Faces Consolidation | KeepTrack Space Brief
SpaceX launches Starlink while debuting on Nasdaq at $1.77 trillion valuation. Meanwhile, Senate FY2027 NDAA would dissolve SDA into Space Force, affecting Tranche constellation tracking.
Space Brief 11 Apr 2025
Today's brief covers Millennium's milestone in missile defense, new satellite jammer for Space Force, budget increases for defense, delays in MEO satellite contracts, and potential impacts of Trump's latest order on Pentagon programs.
Astroscale Taps Isar for ELSA-M Debris Mission | KeepTrack Space Brief
Astroscale selects Isar Aerospace to launch ELSA-M, a commercial deorbit mission targeting defunct satellites in LEO. Over 20,000 trackable debris objects now in orbit.
SpaceX Wins $178.5M Space Force Missile Tracking Contract | KeepTrack Space Brief
SpaceX awarded $178.5M Space Force contract for missile tracking satellite launches beginning 2027. Pentagon also extends GPS modernization support with $45M Raytheon order.
X Report 16 Aug 2025
SpaceX receives FAA approval for its 10th Starship test flight scheduled for August 24, while also making strides in construction at the Cape and contesting broadband funding in Virginia.
X Report 18 Apr 2025
Cape Canaveral launch site activities intensify; SpaceX explores new subscription model for Trump's Golden Dome.