IRIDIUM 33 DEB (34705)

COSPAR: 1997-051LC | Alt Name: deb Iridium 33

DECAYED

Image

Additional Sources

Launch Details

Launch Date

September 14, 1997

Launch Site

Tyuratam Missile and Space Complex

Launch Pad

LC81/23

Launch Vehicle

Proton-K/17S40

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

34705

International Designator

1997-051LC

Decay Date

1/12/2023

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

Diameter

Span

Dry Mass

Launch Mass

Shape

N/A

Radar Cross Section

0.0028

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.

Space Force Awards Orbital AMTI to 9 Companies | KeepTrack Space Brief

Space Force confirmed 9 companies won orbital Air Moving Target Indication contracts. Capability shifts airborne surveillance to satellites for expanded coverage and survivability.

Space Brief 16 Apr 2025

Today's highlights include Pulsar Fusion's groundbreaking nuclear rocket plans, partnerships for the Haven-1 space station, and a spotlight on military collaboration in quantum technology.

Space Brief 30 Jun 2025

Today's highlights include SpaceX's record-breaking launches, Japan's final H-2A launch, and significant developments in satellite data policies impacting weather forecasting.

X Report 5 Dec 2025

SpaceX made significant strides with the launch of 28 Starlink satellites while navigating regulatory challenges regarding rural broadband funding. Additionally, developments on the Crew Dragon mission continue to evolve with a change in cosmonaut assignment.

Space Brief 15 Sep 2025

Discover the latest in satellite tracking with key topics covering the launch of Tranche 1 satellites for the Space Development Agency, a record-setting Transporter-15 mission by Exolaunch, and new defense-focused satellite connectivity solutions by Satlink and Rivada.

Crew-11 Returns to Earth After Historic ISS Medical Evacuation | KeepTrack X Report

SpaceX Crew-11 mission returns safely to Earth after first-ever medical evacuation from ISS. Crew Dragon splashes down in Pacific Ocean off California coast. Mission ended early due to health concern.

Space Brief 14 Jan 2025

Today's brief focuses on Blue Origin's scrubbed New Glenn launch, SpaceX's reusability milestone, and a warning from the US Air Force about China's advancements in space capabilities. We're also highlighting a key satellite in orbit.

Vulcan Grounding Threatens WGS-11 and OPIR Launches | KeepTrack Space Brief

ULA's Vulcan rocket grounded, imperiling Space Force WGS-11 communications satellite and Next-Gen OPIR missile warning payload. Both missions lack backup launch options.