Space Brief 2 Nov 2025
Today's briefing covers India's military communications satellite launch, SpaceX's Starlink mission milestone, Latvia's agreement to the Artemis Accords, and more significant updates in space technology and satellite launches.
ATLAS 2AS CENTAUR R/B (28253)
COSPAR: 2004-017B | Alt Name: Centaur AC-166
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 19, 2004
Launch Site
Launch Pad
SLC36B
Launch Vehicle
Atlas IIAS
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
28253
International Designator
2004-017B
Decay Date
6/16/2014
Basic Satellite Info
Name
ATLAS 2AS CENTAUR R/B
Alternative Name
Centaur AC-166
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
LMSSD
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
16.0267
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Centaur IIA AC-166
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
LMSSD/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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