Space Brief 25 Mar 2025
Today's brief covers SpaceX's launch of a secret US spy satellite, national security satellite launches, and Japan's missile ambitions. Also highlighted are Estonia's AI defense upgrades and autonomous airpower in Australia.
Launch Date
August 21, 1997
Launch Site
AFWTR
Launch Pad
SLC2W
Launch Vehicle
Delta 7920-10C
NORAD ID
24906
International Designator
1997-043D
Decay Date
3/28/2018
Name
IRIDIUM 23
Alternative Name
Iridium 23
Type
Status
Owner
IRID
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Length
3.5
Diameter
1
Span
5
Dry Mass
556
Launch Mass
662
Shape
Box + 2 Pan
Radar Cross Section
3.304
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Payload
Iridium SV023
Purpose
Communication
Mission
Communication
Manufacturer
MOTO/LMMS
Life Expectancy
8 years
Bus
LM700
Configuration
LM-700A
Motor
?
Equipment
?
Power System
2 deployable solar arrays, batteries
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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