Amazon vs SpaceX and the Battle for the Best Satellite Internet Service
SpaceX and Amazon Are Playing for Keeps to Control Satellite Broadband and Connect the World. But Is There Room for Both in the Orbit?
CZ-3A R/B (28083)
COSPAR: 2003-052B | Alt Name: CZ-3A Y8 Stage 3
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
November 14, 2003
Launch Site
XICLF
Launch Pad
LC2
Launch Vehicle
Chang Zheng 3A
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
28083
International Designator
2003-052B
Decay Date
4/12/2010
Basic Satellite Info
Name
CZ-3A R/B
Alternative Name
CZ-3A Y8 Stage 3
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
CASC
Country
China
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
12.4
Diameter
3
Span
12.4
Dry Mass
2800
Launch Mass
7000
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
12.5893
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
CZ-3A Stage 3
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
CALT
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
CZ-3A Stage 3
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Space Brief 15 Sep 2025
Discover the latest in satellite tracking with key topics covering the launch of Tranche 1 satellites for the Space Development Agency, a record-setting Transporter-15 mission by Exolaunch, and new defense-focused satellite connectivity solutions by Satlink and Rivada.
Space Brief 5 Dec 2025
Focusing on military satellite initiatives, defense strategies, and advancements in air and cyber capabilities
Space Brief 20 Nov 2024
Today's highlights include the U.S. military's satellite initiative facing delays, Senate inquiries into high-profile calls, and an update on Pentagon's UFO investigations. Notable mentions also cover Morocco's defense sector ambitions.
Space Brief 12 May 2025
Today's brief covers key industry movements in space logistics and satellite production, including Rocket Lab's new U.S. Air Force contract, Sierra Space's strides in GPS technology, and more.
25 Starlinks Lofted from Vandenberg in Latest West Coast Push | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX launched 25 Starlink satellites from Vandenberg SFB on March 8, growing a constellation now totaling 9,924 active orbital nodes.
Space Brief 6 Aug 2025
Highlights of today's Space Brief include advancements in missile defense systems, a historic lunar project by NASA, and strategic military investments in satellite technology.
Space Brief 12 Jul 2025
Today's focus spans from major military training initiatives in orbit to key updates on drone policies and crucial satellite launches.