Space Brief 16 Apr 2025
Today's highlights include Pulsar Fusion's groundbreaking nuclear rocket plans, partnerships for the Haven-1 space station, and a spotlight on military collaboration in quantum technology.
Launch Date
June 20, 2002
Launch Site
PLMSC
Launch Pad
LC133/3
Launch Vehicle
Rokot
NORAD ID
27450
International Designator
2002-031A
Decay Date
12/27/2019
Name
IRIDIUM 97
Alternative Name
Iridium 97
Type
Status
Owner
IRIDS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Length
3.5
Diameter
1
Span
5
Dry Mass
556
Launch Mass
655
Shape
Box + 2 Pan
Radar Cross Section
3.0423
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Payload
Iridium SV097
Purpose
Communication
Mission
Communication
Manufacturer
MOTO
Life Expectancy
8 years
Bus
LM700
Configuration
LM-700A
Motor
Primex EHT
Equipment
?
Power System
2 deployable solar arrays, batteries
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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