Space Brief 17 Sep 2024
Today's Space Brief covers crucial satellite events including upcoming launches, military space developments, and exceptional celestial sightings.
ATLAS 2AS CENTAUR R/B (27529)
COSPAR: 2002-044B | Alt Name: Centaur AC-159
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
September 18, 2002
Launch Site
Launch Pad
SLC36A
Launch Vehicle
Atlas IIAS
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
27529
International Designator
2002-044B
Decay Date
4/3/2003
Basic Satellite Info
Name
ATLAS 2AS CENTAUR R/B
Alternative Name
Centaur AC-159
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
LMA
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
10.1
Diameter
3.1
Span
10.1
Dry Mass
2095
Launch Mass
2095
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
12.5892
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Centaur IIA AC-159
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
LMA/DENV
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Centaur
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
RL-10
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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