IRIDIUM 33 DEB (34485)

COSPAR: 1997-051GA | Alt Name: deb Iridium 33
DECAYED

Image
IRIDIUM 33 DEB Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

September 14, 1997

Launch Pad

LC81/23

Launch Vehicle

Proton-K/17S40

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

34485

International Designator

1997-051GA

Decay Date

10/17/2012

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

0.0052

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.

X Report 2 Apr 2025

X Report 2 Apr 2025

SpaceX's Fram2 mission marks a historic first in polar orbit travel, while DARPA unexpectedly detects Falcon 9 reentry using atmospheric listening.

X Report 5 Jun 2025

X Report 5 Jun 2025

SpaceX celebrates significant milestones with its 500th Falcon launch and the continued expansion of Starlink connectivity.

X Report 1 Jun 2025

X Report 1 Jun 2025

SpaceX successfully launched 27 Starlink satellites, marking another milestone for its broadband internet service. Meanwhile, the latest GPS III satellite was also launched for the U.S. military, showcasing SpaceX's multifaceted capabilities.

Firefly Alpha Returns to Flight After Anomaly | KeepTrack Space Brief

Firefly Alpha Returns to Flight After Anomaly | KeepTrack Space Brief

Firefly Aerospace launches return-to-flight Firefly Alpha on March 10 after Flight 6 anomaly. SpaceX also launches EchoStar 25 GEO satellite and multiple Starlink batches this week.

Space Brief 17 Apr 2025

Space Brief 17 Apr 2025

Today's brief covers the redeployment of decommissioned missile technologies to orbital duties, Germany's plans for a sovereign communications network, and fresh developments in hypersonic testing through Rocket Lab.

The Day Humanity's First Modular Space Station Reached Orbit

The Day Humanity's First Modular Space Station Reached Orbit

Thirty-nine years ago, a Proton rocket carried the core of the Mir space station into orbit, launching an unprecedented era of continuous human presence in space and international cooperation

ESA Proba-3 Spacecraft Goes Silent, Formation Mission Halted | KeepTrack Space Brief

ESA Proba-3 Spacecraft Goes Silent, Formation Mission Halted | KeepTrack Space Brief

ESA's Proba-3 spacecraft lost contact last month following on-orbit anomaly. Mission requires both satellites in precise formation for solar corona science. Recovery status uncertain.

X Report 8 Feb 2025

X Report 8 Feb 2025

SpaceX makes strides on Starship launch pad, upcoming Starlink infusions from California and Florida, and regulatory challenges loom with FCC and C-band spectrum.