Space Brief 19 Feb 2025
Today's brief covers launches by SpaceX and mysterious Space Force missions, along with updates on Japan's moon lander and US-UAE defense deals.
Launch Date
June 27, 1995
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Space Shuttle
NORAD ID
23600
International Designator
1995-030A
Decay Date
7/7/1995
Name
STS 71
Alternative Name
Atlantis (STS-71)
Type
Status
Owner
JSC
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Length
37.3
Diameter
23.8
Span
37.3
Dry Mass
86342
Launch Mass
96205
Shape
Box + 2 Wing + Fin
Radar Cross Section
19.7
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
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
Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Today's brief covers launches by SpaceX and mysterious Space Force missions, along with updates on Japan's moon lander and US-UAE defense deals.
SpaceX shares jump 20% on first trading day after historic IPO. China launches tallest rocket while LandSpace preps second landing attempt. Tracking data.
Today's space news roundup highlights a significant defense bill passed for the Space Force, a delay in the Axiom-4 mission due to ISS issues, and major satellite deals with NATO.
SpaceX delays the launch of 23 Starlink satellites due to geomagnetic storm concerns, adjusting the schedule for an upcoming Falcon 9 mission.
SpaceX's Crew-10 astronauts are set to return to Earth after a five-month mission, while the company prepares for the launch of 24 new Starlink satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base.
U.S. GSSAP satellites execute coordinated GEO maneuvers for continuous surveillance of Chinese Shijian-29 spacecraft. Handoff approach maintains coverage with zero gaps.
FCC clears Reflect Orbital's first satellite to bounce sunlight into nighttime zones, despite pushback from astronomers concerned about orbital streaking and wildlife impacts.
SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell joined Trump at the White House to outline xAI's energy commitment, while Transporter-18 targets October 2026 launch.