Space Brief 24 Oct 2025
Today's Space Brief covers China's latest satellite launch, Russian threats to UK satellites, European defense strategies, and upcoming satellite launches from SatLeo and Quantum Space.
FLOCK 2B-14 (40980)
COSPAR: 1998-067HN | Alt Name: Flock 2b-14
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
November 20, 1998
Launch Site
Launch Pad
Y2
Launch Vehicle
H-IIB
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
40980
International Designator
1998-067HN
Decay Date
9/12/2016
Basic Satellite Info
Name
FLOCK 2B-14
Alternative Name
Flock 2b-14
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
PLABS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
FLOCK 2B-14, also known as Flock 2b-14, is a CubeSat (3U) technology satellite owned and operated by Planet Labs (PLABS). It was launched on November 20, 1998, from Tanegashima Space Center using the H-IIB launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length, 0.1 meters in diameter, and spans 0.3 meters, with a dry mass of 5 kilograms, which is also its launch mass. It is equipped with PS0, PS1 or PS2 imaging payload for technology demonstration purposes. FLOCK 2B-14's operational lifetime varies from approximately one year when in the International Space Station orbit to two to three years when in Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO). The satellite uses solar cells and batteries for power generation and has a box shape with two panels, with an RCS value of 0.082.
Physical Characteristics
Length
0.3
Diameter
0.1
Span
0.3
Dry Mass
5
Launch Mass
5
Shape
Box+2 pan
Radar Cross Section
0.082
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Dove 0C47
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.
How does Google Map's Satellite View Feature Work?
Learn which satellites take photos and why we can't get updates instantly.
China Files Plans for 200,000-Satellite Megaconstellation With ITU | KeepTrack Space Brief
China files ITU paperwork for megaconstellations totaling nearly 200,000 satellites. SpaceX launches first rideshare mission of 2026 from Vandenberg. NASA plans ISS crew medical evacuation.
NASA Pressures Blue Origin on HLS After New Glenn Explosion | KeepTrack Space Brief
NASA demands Blue Origin find alternate launcher for Artemis moon landers after New Glenn test explosion damaged Cape Canaveral LC-36. Schedule risk to lunar missions.
X Report 25 Oct 2025
SpaceX prepares for a record-setting launch of Starlink satellites, while Iridium faces challenges against SpaceX's expanding services.
The Day a Farm Boy Found a New World
Ninety-five years ago, a 24-year-old astronomer with no college degree made one of astronomy's most remarkable discoveries, finding a new planet that would challenge our understanding of the solar system
X Report 29 May 2025
SpaceX made strides in both Starship and Starlink missions this week, launching another round of satellites while concurrently testing their Starship capabilities amidst challenges.
The Day South Korea Achieved Independent Space Launch Capability
Twelve years ago, South Korea successfully launched a satellite using its own launch vehicle and facilities for the first time, marking a crucial milestone in its journey to space independence