Space Brief 14 Apr 2025
Today's highlights include SpaceX's record-breaking Falcon launches, urgent warnings about orbital collisions, and a doubleheader launch featuring spy and Starlink satellites.
OV1-18 R/B (03828)
COSPAR: 1969-025F | Alt Name: OV1-18P
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
March 18, 1969
Launch Site
AFWTR
Launch Pad
ABRESA2
Launch Vehicle
Atlas F
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
03828
International Designator
1969-025F
Decay Date
3/15/1979
Basic Satellite Info
Name
OV1-18 R/B
Alternative Name
OV1-18P
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
OAR
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
2.1
Diameter
0.7
Span
2.1
Dry Mass
125
Launch Mass
125
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
2.2673
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
FW4S
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
UTC
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
FW4
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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