Space Brief 24 Dec 2025
Today's highlights include the successes and setbacks in recent rocket launches, a notable satellite anomaly, and a significant expansion announcement from ESA.
IRIDIUM 33 DEB (33863)
COSPAR: 1997-051AG | Alt Name: deb Iridium 33
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
September 14, 1997
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC81/23
Launch Vehicle
Proton-K/17S40
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
33863
International Designator
1997-051AG
Decay Date
9/22/2010
Basic Satellite Info
Name
IRIDIUM 33 DEB
Alternative Name
deb Iridium 33
Type
Debris
Status
Space Junk
Owner
IRIDS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
Space debris, also known as space junk, encompasses all non-functional objects orbiting Earth such as defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, and fragments from collisions or disintegrations. Over time, this debris can accumulate and create an increasingly hazardous environment in orbit. Even tiny fragments, traveling at extremely high velocities, can inflict significant damage on operational satellites and spacecraft. If left unmanaged, the density of debris raises the risk of catastrophic collisions and further fragmentation, compounding the problem and threatening the safety and sustainability of space activities.
Physical Characteristics
Length
0
Diameter
0
Span
0
Dry Mass
0
Launch Mass
0
Shape
N/A
Radar Cross Section
0.0502
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Van Allen Probe A Reenters After 14 Years; NASA Designates Starliner Type A Mishap | KeepTrack Space Brief
NASA's 590 kg Van Allen Probe A reentered March 10 after 14 years studying Earth's radiation belts. Meanwhile, Boeing Starliner classified as Type A mishap after leaving astronauts stranded on ISS.
Space Brief 9 Sep 2024
Today's Space Brief explores new satellite launches, significant reentries, funding milestones, and critical policy updates.
The Day That Humans Discovered Rocket Fuel
On February 2, 1909, Robert Goddard made a revolutionary breakthrough in his notebook: liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen could achieve 50% efficiency in converting heat energy to kinetic energy for rocket propulsion
X Report 8 Oct 2025
SpaceX successfully launched 28 Starlink satellites aboard a Falcon 9 rocket, marking significant advancements in their deployment and operational capabilities.
Space Brief 18 Dec 2024
Today's highlights include SpaceX's rapid response GPS launch, Raytheon's new rocket motor test, and Starlink's revenue surge. Plus, the Space Force's modernization push.
Pentagon Raises Golden Dome to $185B for Space Defense Layer | KeepTrack Space Brief
Pentagon increases Golden Dome missile defense budget by $10B to $185B, funding HBTSS hypersonic tracking constellation expansion. Three acceleration priorities announced.
Space Brief 16 Nov 2024
Today's highlights include ABL Space shifting its focus to missile defense, Intuitive Machines advocating for Artemis infrastructure reforms, and more updates from space and defense sectors.