Space Brief 6 Apr 2025
Today, we explore substantial U.S. defense contracts awarded for space launches, ESA's enigmatic Euclid images release, and SpaceX missions covering satellite launches and astronaut reentries.
SATURN 5 R/B (03627)
COSPAR: 1968-118B | Alt Name: Saturn S-IVB-503N
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
December 21, 1968
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Saturn V
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
03627
International Designator
1968-118B
Epoch
Sun, 22 Dec 1968 15:46:54 GMT
Apogee
Calculating...
Perigee
Calculating...
Inclination
30.71°
Right Ascension
141.93°
Eccentricity
Calculating...
Argument of Perigee
29.60°
Period
23992.88 min
Mean Motion
0.06 rev/day
Latitude
Calculating...
Longitude
Calculating...
Altitude
Calculating...
Velocity
Calculating...
Polar Plot
3D Visualization
Basic Satellite Info
Name
SATURN 5 R/B
Alternative Name
Saturn S-IVB-503N
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
MSFC
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 03627U 68118 B 68356.65757754 .00000000 +00000-0 +00000-0 0 9996
2 03627 030.7142 141.9251 9763415 029.5976 000.0400 00.06001781000000
Source: Celestrak
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
26.3
Diameter
6.6
Span
26.3
Dry Mass
11673
Launch Mass
86188
Shape
Cyl + 2 Pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Saturn S-IVB-503N
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
MDAC
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
S-IVB
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
Map
Next Pass
Azimuth Elevation Time (Local)
Start Azimuth
Max Elevation
Stop Azimuth
Time Until
Pass Duration
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
X Report 3 Apr 2025
Exciting advancements from SpaceX's Fram2 mission and the pivotal role of biotech in space exploration.
X Report 14 Sep 2025
SpaceX successfully launched its 300th Starlink mission, deploying 24 new satellites to further expand its internet service coverage worldwide.
Space Brief 4 Mar 2025
Today's brief covers the historic lunar touchdown by Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost lander, highlights in military space activity, and a reflection on Pearl Young's pioneering legacy at NASA.
X Report 12 Apr 2025
Key developments include the launch of Starshield satellites for the NRO and updates on Starlink launches and NASA access concerns involving Elon Musk's team.
Falcon 9 Lifts 11,000 lbs of ISS Cargo on NG-24 | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX's Falcon 9 launches Northrop Grumman's Cygnus NG-24 to the ISS carrying 11,000 lbs of critical cargo this weekend.
X Report 15 Sep 2025
SpaceX successfully launched Northrop Grumman's new Cygnus XL cargo spacecraft to the ISS, marking a significant advancement in cargo delivery capabilities.
Space Brief 5 Mar 2025
Today's brief covers developments in US military space initiatives, advancements in missile technology, and notable military contractor activities.