Space Brief 17 Sep 2024
Today's Space Brief covers crucial satellite events including upcoming launches, military space developments, and exceptional celestial sightings.
IRIDIUM 33 DEB (39780)
COSPAR: 1997-051AAM | 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
39780
International Designator
1997-051AAM
Decay Date
11/30/2014
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
0.0124
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.
X Report 22 Dec 2025
SpaceX celebrates a year of industry milestones, including the successful deployment of Starlink satellites and innovative advancements in rocket technology.
X Report 8 Sep 2025
The FAA has approved an increase in Falcon 9 launches while reviewing the environmental impacts of Starship launches in Florida, amidst growing community concerns on noise and other issues related to the Starship program.
X Report 25 Nov 2024
SpaceX launches multiple Starlink batches, FAA updates for Starship, and NASA plans lunar cargo deliveries involving SpaceX and Blue Origin.
X Report 21 Mar 2025
SpaceX achieves a historic rocket reuse milestone and successfully launches NRO satellites, alongside charming interactions during Crew-9 Dragon recovery.
X Report 12 Jun 2025
Today, SpaceX faced delays in launching the Ax-4 mission due to a booster leak, while Starlink made strides towards launching in India with new telecom license approval.
X Report 4 Dec 2024
SpaceX's Falcon 9 achieves a milestone with its 24th launch for Starlink, while competitive moves continue in the satellite internet market.
Top 10 Features You Didn't Know About Starlink
Discover the hidden gems and lesser-known aspects of SpaceX's revolutionary Starlink satellite internet service, from Easter eggs to advanced technical features.