X Report 14 Jun 2025
SpaceX achieves significant milestones with the launch of new Starlink satellites and the production of its 10 millionth Starlink kit amidst ongoing challenges with space station delays.
STEP M4 (25013)
COSPAR: 1997-063A | Alt Name: STEP M4
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
October 22, 1997
Launch Site
ERAS
Launch Pad
RW04/22
Launch Vehicle
Pegasus XL
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
25013
International Designator
1997-063A
Decay Date
3/31/2001
Basic Satellite Info
Name
STEP M4
Alternative Name
STEP M4
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
STP
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STEP M4 satellite, also known as LEOStar T-200, was launched on October 22, 1997, from ERAS launch site using a Pegasus XL launch vehicle. The spacecraft has dimensions of 1.5 meters in length and 0.9 meters in diameter with a span of 1.5 meters, featuring a box shape. It has a dry mass of 300 kilograms and was designed for experimental purposes by STP (Space Test Program). Equipped with DIDM, EMPE, OOAM equipment, it is powered by four deployable fixed solar arrays along with batteries. The satellite's manufacturing involved TRWC/OSCM and its launch mass was 403 kilograms.
Physical Characteristics
Length
1.5
Diameter
0.9
Span
1.5
Dry Mass
300
Launch Mass
403
Shape
Box
Radar Cross Section
1.2883
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
STEP M4
Purpose
Experimental
Mission
Experimental
Manufacturer
TRWC/OSCM
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
LEOStar T-200
Configuration
LEOStar
Motor
?
Equipment
DIDM, EMPE, OOAM
Power System
4 deployable fixed solar arrays, batteries
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
X Report 16 Nov 2024
SpaceX preps for Starship Flight 6 while Shotwell predicts Starship's future impact. Impulse Space secures Falcon 9 launches, and potential shifts in US space policy loom.
Space Brief 12 Jan 2025
Today's briefing covers significant events including launch delays for SpaceX's Starship and Blue Origin's New Glenn, BepiColombo's landmark Mercury flyby, and the impact of Los Angeles fires on the space community.
Space Force Awards Counter-Surveillance Payload Contracts | KeepTrack Space Brief
Space Force RCO awarded SBIR contracts for radar-detection payloads to counter adversary surveillance of U.S. satellites. Follow-on miniaturization effort already planned.
X Report 5 Feb 2025
SpaceX launches Maxar's high-resolution imaging satellites, Ontario reconsiders its Starlink contract, and the countdown to NASA's Lunar Trailblazer mission begins.
Iran Struck U.S. Aircraft Despite 'Maxed Out' Defense | KeepTrack Space Brief
Iran successfully struck U.S. aircraft in Saudi Arabia despite maxed-out defensive posture. Space Force ISR and missile warning gaps exposed. Tracking impacts.
Space Brief 12 Aug 2025
Today's brief covers a groundbreaking national security mission for ULA's Vulcan, NASA's collaboration with LeoLabs for enhanced collision avoidance, and SEOPS' new satellite tracking services, among other key developments.
Space Brief 18 Jun 2025
Today's updates cover crucial developments in satellite licensing reforms, defense cybersecurity, and AI integration within government sectors.