Space Brief 28 Nov 2024
Today's briefing covers China's announcement of the Beidou system upgrade, launch updates for Vega C, challenges to global GPS reliability, and delays in the VERITAS Venus mission.
MINOTAUR 4 R/B (37819)
COSPAR: 2011-052B | Alt Name: Minotaur Stage 4
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
September 27, 2011
Launch Site
KODAK
Launch Pad
LP1
Launch Vehicle
Minotaur IV+
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
37819
International Designator
2011-052B
Decay Date
9/13/2013
Basic Satellite Info
Name
MINOTAUR 4 R/B
Alternative Name
Minotaur Stage 4
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
AFSMC
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
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
2.3
Diameter
1.1
Span
2.3
Dry Mass
140
Launch Mass
2200
Shape
Sphere + Cone
Radar Cross Section
5.333
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Star 48BV
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
ATKE
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Star 48V
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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