Space Brief 14 May 2025
Today's edition covers China's latest launches in their classified satellite programs, ongoing discussions in the U.S. Senate on missile defense, and the ever-escalating space debris crisis threatening national security.
PSLV R/B (26960)
COSPAR: 2001-049D | Alt Name: PSLV-C3-PS4
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
October 22, 2001
Launch Site
SRILR
Launch Pad
FLP
Launch Vehicle
PSLV
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
26960
International Designator
2001-049D
Decay Date
1/29/2026
Basic Satellite Info
Name
PSLV R/B
Alternative Name
PSLV-C3-PS4
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
ISRO
Country
India
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
2.7
Diameter
2.1
Span
2.7
Dry Mass
920
Launch Mass
920
Shape
Cyl + Cyl
Radar Cross Section
4.878
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
PS4 PSLV-C3
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
LPSC
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
PS-4
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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