Space Brief 3 Jul 2025
Today's coverage includes the cancellation of DARPA's DRACO nuclear propulsion project, global shifts in Earth observation strategy, and new developments in satellite technology and military collaborations.
SL-12 R/B(1) (25523)
COSPAR: 1998-065B | Alt Name: Proton-K 395-02 Stage 3
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
November 4, 1998
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC81/23
Launch Vehicle
Proton-K/DM-2M
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
25523
International Designator
1998-065B
Decay Date
11/6/1998
Basic Satellite Info
Name
SL-12 R/B(1)
Alternative Name
Proton-K 395-02 Stage 3
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
VKSR
Country
Russia
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
6.5
Diameter
4.2
Span
6.5
Dry Mass
4185
Launch Mass
4185
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
22
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
8S812
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
KHRR
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
8S812
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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