The Day Fiery Failure Launched NASA
Sixty-eight years ago, America's first satellite exploded on the launchpad in front of the entire world. But from the ashes of Vanguard TV-3 came the determination that would eventually win the Space Race.
Launch Date
July 25, 2002
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC81/24
Launch Vehicle
Proton-K/17S40
NORAD ID
28755
International Designator
2002-037BA
Decay Date
11/25/2005
Name
SL-12 DEB
Alternative Name
deb DM5-2L SOZ-1
Type
Status
Owner
KVR
Country
Russia
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Length
0
Diameter
0
Span
0
Dry Mass
0
Launch Mass
0
Shape
N/A
Radar Cross Section
0.0271
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Payload
Unknown
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
Unknown
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Unknown
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Sixty-eight years ago, America's first satellite exploded on the launchpad in front of the entire world. But from the ashes of Vanguard TV-3 came the determination that would eventually win the Space Race.
SpaceX makes strides with United States national security satellites, securing substantial spectrum for Starlink's direct-to-cell services, and preparing for future Starship developments.
Today's highlights include the launch of a U.S. military satellite via SpaceX, a new French defense agreement for satellite services, and the Missile Defense Agency's successful ICBM target tracking with long-range radar.
SpaceX Starlink updates for 2026 open with Starlink 6-88: 29 satellites from Cape Canaveral on Jan 4, after a record 165-launch 2025.
Today's update covers new military space initiatives, impacts of drone threats in Europe, and advancements in secure cloud technology for NATO and Ukraine.
SpaceX continues to push forward with its ambitious plans as the FAA investigates Starship debris reports, while Starlink maintains robust satellite operations.
Today's brief highlights the successful launch of 29 Starlink satellites, progress on the Starship fleet, and ongoing adjustments in SpaceX's launch schedules.
Booster B1067 sets a new Falcon 9 reuse record on its 36th flight, lifting Starlink 10-42 from Cape Canaveral at 5:25 a.m. EDT.