IRIDIUM 33 DEB (36495)

COSPAR: 1997-051WM | 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

36495

International Designator

1997-051WM

Decay Date

10/20/2021

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

0.0096

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 11 May 2025

Discover the latest innovations from Rocket Lab, new developments in hypersonic flight, and significant advances in satellite technology with BlackSky. Gain insights into the Space Force's mission and MIT physicists' breakthroughs in observing atoms.

Space Brief 17 Aug 2025

Today's space news features major US Space Force satellite launches, regulatory changes supporting private space initiatives, and updates on SpaceX's Starship advances.

X Report 28 May 2025

Today marks significant milestones and setbacks for SpaceX as Starship Flight 9 completes a historic launch but ultimately suffers a loss of control. Additionally, a successful Starlink deployment continues to expand global internet coverage.

China's Shenlong Deploys Six Objects

Details on China's current Shenlong spaceplane mission and its recent deployment of six objects.

Space Brief 9 Sep 2025

Explore the latest advancements in satellite technology, military satellite applications, and collaborative efforts in hypersonic vehicle tracking. Discover the transformative power of new deals shaping global communication networks.

Nuclear Renaissance Surges in Space, Pentagon Invests $1B in L3Harris Missiles | KeepTrack Space Brief

Demand surges for nuclear power in space including lunar surface reactors. Pentagon commits $1B as anchor investor in L3Harris missile unit. Orbion delivers 33 electric thrusters for military sats.

X Report 27 Aug 2025

SpaceX successfully completes a critical test flight of its Starship vehicle while gearing up for another Starlink satellite launch, showcasing significant advancements in their launch capabilities.

X Report 4 Apr 2025

SpaceX gears up for Starship's ninth flight with a reused booster, Fram2 astronauts share stunning orbital views, and SpaceX secures new NASA contracts for the Starship.