Space Brief 29 May 2025
Today's brief covers a Japanese military satellite launch, new GPS satellite orders by the Space Force, and a Moog propulsion system contract, among other notable developments.
FLOCK 1C-11 (40033)
COSPAR: 2014-033Z | Alt Name: Flock 1c-11
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
June 19, 2014
Launch Site
DLS
Launch Pad
Sh370/13
Launch Vehicle
Dnepr
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
40033
International Designator
2014-033Z
Decay Date
3/2/2025
Basic Satellite Info
Name
FLOCK 1C-11
Alternative Name
Flock 1c-11
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
PLABS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The FLOCK 1C-11 satellite, also known as Flock 1c-11, is a CubeSat (3U) technology demonstration satellite launched by Planet Labs (PLABS) from the Dnepr launch vehicle at DLS on June 19, 2014. It has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length and diameter, with a dry mass of 4.25 kilograms. The satellite is equipped with solar cells and batteries for power and carries an imaging payload designated as Dove 090D (PS0, PS1 or PS2). Its expected operational lifetime varies from about one year if operating in the International Space Station (ISS) orbit to two to three years if in Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO). The satellite has a reflective surface area (RCS) of 0.0604 and is shaped like a box with two panels for solar exposure.
Physical Characteristics
Length
0.3
Diameter
0.1
Span
0.3
Dry Mass
4.25
Launch Mass
4.25
Shape
Box+2 pan
Radar Cross Section
0.0604
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Dove 090D
Purpose
Technology
Mission
Technology
Manufacturer
PLABS
Life Expectancy
~ 1 year (ISS orbit); 2-3 years (SSO)
Bus
Cubesat 3U
Configuration
CubeSat (3U)
Motor
None (most); FEEP (#Flock-3p')
Equipment
PS0, PS1 or PS2 imaging payload
Power System
Solar cells, batteries
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
X Report 9 Mar 2025
SpaceX reveals plans for Florida Starship launches, NASA teams up for dual missions, and FCC boosts satellite connectivity.
X Report 6 May 2025
SpaceX prepares for its 250th mission from SLC-40, while Starlink experiences a surge during a crisis in Spain and Portugal. Additionally, SpaceX celebrates the official designation of Starbase City, aiming to boost launch capabilities.
New Glenn Explodes After USSF Awards Blue Origin Security Contract | KeepTrack Space Brief
New Glenn rocket exploded hours after U.S. Space Force and NRO awarded Blue Origin a national security launch task order. Stand-down and mishap investigation expected.
Space Force Plans to Double Active-Duty Force by 2030 | KeepTrack Space Brief
Space Force confirms plan to double active-duty Guardians by 2030, targeting faster response to satellite anomalies and adversary maneuvers in space domain awareness operations.
X Report 30 Apr 2025
SpaceX achieves a remarkable milestone with its 50th Falcon 9 launch of 2025, while Starlink continues to expand, facing competition from China's megaconstellation efforts.
Mike Melvill, 124 Meters, and the Morning Space Went Private
On 21 June 2004, a 63-year-old test pilot rode a homebuilt rocket plane to 100,124 meters above the Mojave Desert, clearing the edge of space by about the length of a city block. He came down the first private astronaut in history, holding a sign that read 'SpaceShipOne, GovernmentZero.'
X Report 6 Oct 2025
SpaceX gears up for its 11th Starship test flight, while Starlink expands connectivity through partnerships with T-Mobile, enhancing app functionality beyond cellular coverage.