Space Brief 26 Feb 2025
Today's brief covers the crash of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket over Europe, the Space Force's mapping efforts with Iron Dome, and key military appointments and funding decisions.
TITAN 4 R/B (25018)
COSPAR: 1997-064B | Alt Name: Titan 4A-18 Stage 2
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
October 24, 1997
Launch Site
AFWTR
Launch Pad
SLC4E
Launch Vehicle
Titan 403A
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
25018
International Designator
1997-064B
Decay Date
3/26/2002
Basic Satellite Info
Name
TITAN 4 R/B
Alternative Name
Titan 4A-18 Stage 2
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
AFSMC
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
9.9
Diameter
3.1
Span
9.9
Dry Mass
4500
Launch Mass
4500
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
31.2655
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
LR91AJ11A 4A-18
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
LM/DENV
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Titan 4 Stage 2
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.
Space Brief 18 Jan 2025
In today's brief: high-profile personnel changes in the Space Force, the inclusion of Space Force in historical political events, and strategic shifts in defense highlighted with a focus on satellite applications.
Space Brief 4 Mar 2025
Today's brief covers the historic lunar touchdown by Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost lander, highlights in military space activity, and a reflection on Pearl Young's pioneering legacy at NASA.
Space Brief 4 Apr 2025
Today's highlights include the release of a mystery object by Russian military satellites, SpaceX Fram2 mission insights, Amazon's upcoming satellite launch, and more.
Track the International Space Station
A look at how tracking the space station offers a unique view of space exploration.
SpaceX Launches Third GPS Satellite Reassigned From ULA | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX successfully launches GPS satellite for Space Force — third consecutive GPS mission switched from ULA. EBAD demonstrates payload release module on Falcon 9 rideshare mission.
Artemis 2 Crew First Lunar-Bound Humans Since 1972 | KeepTrack Space Brief
Artemis 2 Orion carries first humans toward the Moon in 53 years. Spacecraft in good health after trans-lunar injection; lunar flyby observation plan due April 6.
X Report 3 Aug 2025
SpaceX bids farewell to LZ-1 while continuing its mission towards advancements in satellite technology and the ongoing Starlink project.