The 10 Most Iconic Satellites Still in Space
Let's look at the legacy of space exploration with the 10 most iconic satellites still orbiting Earth.
H-2A R/B (29394)
COSPAR: 2006-037B | Alt Name: H-2A F10 Stage 2
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
September 11, 2006
Launch Site
TANSC
Launch Pad
Y
Launch Vehicle
H-IIA 202
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
29394
International Designator
2006-037B
Decay Date
2/16/2012
Basic Satellite Info
Name
H-2A R/B
Alternative Name
H-2A F10 Stage 2
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
MHI
Country
Japan
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
9.2
Diameter
4
Span
9.2
Dry Mass
4000
Launch Mass
4000
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
17.312
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
H-2A Stage 2
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
MHITO
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
H-2A Stage 2
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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