Space Brief 31 May 2025
Today's brief covers a significant GPS satellite launch by SpaceX, China's classified satellite mission, and Rocket Lab's strategic steps in the defense sector.
CZ-2C DEB [DISPENSER] (25434)
COSPAR: 1998-048D | Alt Name: Smart Dispenser
DECAYED
Image
![CZ-2C DEB [DISPENSER] Satellite Image](/images/sat/deb3.jpg)
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
August 19, 1998
Launch Site
TAISC
Launch Pad
LC7
Launch Vehicle
Chang Zheng 2C-III/SD
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
25434
International Designator
1998-048D
Decay Date
9/23/1998
Basic Satellite Info
Name
CZ-2C DEB [DISPENSER]
Alternative Name
Smart Dispenser
Type
Debris
Status
Space Junk
Owner
CASC1
Country
China
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
Space debris, also known as space junk, encompasses all non-functional objects orbiting Earth such as defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, and fragments from collisions or disintegrations. Over time, this debris can accumulate and create an increasingly hazardous environment in orbit. Even tiny fragments, traveling at extremely high velocities, can inflict significant damage on operational satellites and spacecraft. If left unmanaged, the density of debris raises the risk of catastrophic collisions and further fragmentation, compounding the problem and threatening the safety and sustainability of space activities.
Physical Characteristics
Length
0.9
Diameter
2.9
Span
2.9
Dry Mass
550
Launch Mass
675
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
0.7002
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
CZ-2C SD
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
CALT
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
CZ-2C SD
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
FG-47
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
SpaceX Opens 2026 With 29 Starlink Satellites, X Report 5 Jan 2026
SpaceX Starlink updates for 2026 open with Starlink 6-88: 29 satellites from Cape Canaveral on Jan 4, after a record 165-launch 2025.
Space Brief 28 Mar 2025
Today's updates focus on significant developments in U.S. national security space launches, Army space training, potential shifts in satellite procurement strategies, and the Meteor 2-21 satellite.
SpaceX Unveils Space Traffic Management System, Bahamas Landings Resume | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX unveils new space traffic management system for orbital coordination. Bahamas grants permission for rocket landings after Starship debris pause. Musk proposes lunar satellite catapult.
Space Brief 17 Sep 2024
Today's Space Brief covers crucial satellite events including upcoming launches, military space developments, and exceptional celestial sightings.
New Glenn Static Fire Anomaly Grounds Amazon Launch | KeepTrack Space Brief
Blue Origin's New Glenn suffered catastrophic anomaly during static fire test at LC-36. Amazon LEO satellites pulled; NASA lunar missions now in question.
Space Brief 14 Mar 2025
Today’s highlights include new defense initiatives in the U.S., potential strategic shifts in Europe, and the establishment of council to counter security threats.
Starship V3 Flight 12 Succeeds Despite Engine Shutdown | KeepTrack X Report
Starship V3 completed Flight 12 on May 22 despite one vacuum Raptor shutting down early, with SpaceX's IPO filing revealing bold Starlink Mobile ambitions.