Space Brief 18 Apr 2025
Today's highlights include a Minotaur IV launch of U.S. spy satellites, Rocket Lab's new defense contracts, and the unveiling of Space Force's warfighting framework. Plus, the Satellite Spotlight dives into METEOR 3-1.
ARIANE 44L R/B (27684)
COSPAR: 2003-007B | Alt Name: Ariane H10-3 V159
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
February 15, 2003
Launch Site
FRGUI
Launch Pad
ELA2
Launch Vehicle
Ariane 44L
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
27684
International Designator
2003-007B
Decay Date
4/25/2024
Basic Satellite Info
Name
ARIANE 44L R/B
Alternative Name
Ariane H10-3 V159
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
AE
Country
France
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
12.1
Diameter
2.6
Span
12.1
Dry Mass
1820
Launch Mass
2000
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
18.1733
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Ariane H10-3 S/N T4116
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
EADSL
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Ariane H10-3
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
HM-7B
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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