Space Brief 5 Oct 2025
Today's brief covers significant advancements in national security space launches, ongoing rocket developments, and critical updates from the space industry.
ATLAS AGENA B R/B (00342)
COSPAR: 1962-030A | Alt Name: FTV 2403
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
July 18, 1962
Launch Site
AFWTR
Launch Pad
LC1-1
Launch Vehicle
Atlas Agena B
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
00342
International Designator
1962-030A
Decay Date
7/25/1962
Basic Satellite Info
Name
ATLAS AGENA B R/B
Alternative Name
FTV 2403
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
SAFSP
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
2.5
Diameter
1.5
Span
2.5
Dry Mass
400
Launch Mass
400
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
SAMOS E-6 No. 3
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
GEVF
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Samos 201
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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