Space Brief 21 May 2025
Today's Space Brief covers significant events including a high-stakes missile defense program, recent Chinese satellite launches, military defense initiatives, and key profiles in defense leadership.
IRIDIUM 33 DEB (35844)
COSPAR: 1997-051SU | 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
35844
International Designator
1997-051SU
Decay Date
1/15/2022
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
0.0146
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 Brief 31 Jul 2025
Today's Space Brief brings updates on the U.S. Space Force's upcoming missions, in-space technology strategies, the challenges faced by new launchers, and advancements in satellite communication.
Space Brief 3 Nov 2024
Today focuses on Blue Origin's preparation for New Glenn's debut, SpaceX Crew-9's ISS maneuver, the importance of U.S.-China cooperation in space, and breathtaking ISS photography.
The Day Destiny Changed the Space Station Forever
Twenty-four years ago, two spacewalking astronauts battled an ammonia leak while installing the U.S. Laboratory module Destiny, transforming the International Space Station from a construction site to a world-class research facility
X Report 2 Mar 2025
Starship receives FAA approval for its next test flight, while SpaceX prepares to launch more Starlink satellites amidst reaching 5 million subscribers.
Space Brief 8 Nov 2025
Today's Space Brief covers major developments in Pentagon procurement methods, strategic satellite intelligence advancements, and increasing interest in drone technology within the defense sector.
The Morning a Supply Ship Tore Open Mir
On 25 June 1997, a seven-ton cargo ship under hand control drifted into Mir's Spektr module, breached the hull, and left three crew members listening to their air hiss into space. It remains the worst collision in the history of human spaceflight.
Artemis II Crew Sets Human Distance Record at Moon | KeepTrack Space Brief
Artemis II crew surpassed Apollo 13's distance record during April 6 lunar flyby. Orion carried 4 astronauts—including Canadian Jeremy Hansen—farther from Earth than any humans.