Space Brief 21 Jul 2025
Today's brief covers SpaceX's latest Starlink launch, fascinating exoplanet discoveries, and strategic lunar developments by China and South Korea.
DELTA 1 R/B (03993)
COSPAR: N/A | Alt Name: FW4D
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
June 21, 1969
Launch Site
AFWTR
Launch Pad
Unknown
Launch Vehicle
Unknown
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
03993
International Designator
N/A
Decay Date
12/10/1976
Basic Satellite Info
Name
DELTA 1 R/B
Alternative Name
FW4D
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
GSFC
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
1.5
Diameter
0.5
Span
1.5
Dry Mass
40
Launch Mass
40
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
FW4D S/N 2322-2
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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