Space Brief 7 Jun 2025
Today's brief covers the latest in satellite launches, military implications in space funding, and notable reentry delays.
FALCON 9 R/B (40371)
COSPAR: 2015-001B | Alt Name: Dragon solar array cover
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
January 10, 2015
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
40371
International Designator
2015-001B
Decay Date
1/13/2015
Basic Satellite Info
Name
FALCON 9 R/B
Alternative Name
Dragon solar array cover
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
SPX
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
2.9
Diameter
0.4
Span
2.9
Dry Mass
104
Launch Mass
104
Shape
Plate
Radar Cross Section
6.0164
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Unknown
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
SPX
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Unknown
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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