Space Brief 26 Nov 2024
Today's headlines include new launch schedules, military industrial base challenges, and NASA's exploration of historic Cold War sites. Discover significant space events and satellite insights.
FLOCK 1B-1 (40131)
COSPAR: 1998-067FA | Alt Name: Flock 1b-1
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
November 20, 1998
Launch Site
Launch Pad
Pad 0A
Launch Vehicle
Antares 120
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
40131
International Designator
1998-067FA
Decay Date
1/1/2015
Basic Satellite Info
Name
FLOCK 1B-1
Alternative Name
Flock 1b-1
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
PLABS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
FLOCK 1B-1, also known as Flock 1b-1, is a CubeSat (3U) technology satellite manufactured by PLABS and owned by the same entity. It was launched on November 20, 1998, from TYMSC Pad 0A using an Antares 120 launch vehicle. The satellite measures 0.3 meters in length with a diameter of 0.1 meters and spans across 0.3 meters. Its dry mass is 4.5 kg, which was also its launch mass. FLOCK 1B-1 is equipped with solar cells and batteries for power, and it carries imaging payloads such as PS0, PS1 or PS2. The satellite's shape resembles a box with two panels and has a radar cross-section (RCS) of 0.104 square meters. Its mission involves technology demonstration, and its estimated lifetime is approximately 1 year in ISS orbit or 2-3 years in SSO (Sun-Synchronous Orbit).
Physical Characteristics
Length
0.3
Diameter
0.1
Span
0.3
Dry Mass
4.5
Launch Mass
4.5
Shape
Box+2 pan
Radar Cross Section
0.104
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Dove 0813
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.
Space Brief 18 Dec 2024
Today's highlights include SpaceX's rapid response GPS launch, Raytheon's new rocket motor test, and Starlink's revenue surge. Plus, the Space Force's modernization push.
Space Brief 5 Sep 2025
Today's Space Brief delves into key military developments in space, including the Space Force's pioneering officer training and innovative small satellite communication strategies.
X Report 4 Oct 2025
SpaceX continues to push forward with significant milestones, including the launch of additional Starlink satellites and progress on spectrum acquisitions.
SpaceX to Launch 11,000th Starlink Satellite, Crew-12 Moved Up to Feb 11 | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX set to launch 11,000th Starlink satellite on Starlink 17-19 from Vandenberg. NASA moves Crew-12 launch to Feb 11 after ISS medical evacuation. Starship V3 targets mid-March first flight.
Space Brief 18 Sep 2024
Today's Space Brief covers Rocket Lab's IoT satellite launch, SpaceX's European Galileo satellites, FAA's fine on SpaceX, Polaris Dawn mission achievements, and more.
10,168 Starlink Satellites in Orbit, X Report 6 Apr 2026
Current number of Starlink satellites in orbit April 2026: 10,168 working of 10,177 tracked, 11,724 launched. Fleet health tops 99.9%.
Space Brief 12 Feb 2025
Today's space brief covers SpaceX's latest Starlink missions, Satellogic's contract with Brazilian Air Force, OCX, and ATLAS project updates, and DARPA's insights on cybersecurity vulnerabilities.