X Report 17 Dec 2025
SpaceX prepares for a busy launch schedule with key upgrades at Starbase and notable Starlink missions. Recent close approaches in orbit underscore the complexities of satellite operations.
SZ-11 MODULE (41868)
COSPAR: 2016-061G | Alt Name: Shenzhou 11 Guidao Cang
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
October 16, 2016
Launch Site
JSC
Launch Pad
LC921
Launch Vehicle
Chang Zheng 2F
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
41868
International Designator
2016-061G
Decay Date
10/6/2020
Basic Satellite Info
Name
SZ-11 MODULE
Alternative Name
Shenzhou 11 Guidao Cang
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
CMSEO
Country
China
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The SZ-11 MODULE, also known as Shenzhou 11 Guidao Cang, is an orbital module launched by China on October 16, 2016. It was deployed from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center (JSC) using a Chang Zheng 2F launch vehicle from launch pad LC921. The satellite has dimensions of 2.3 meters in length and 2.8 meters in diameter with a span of 4.3 meters, featuring a cylindrical shape with two panels. It was manufactured by CAST for the China Manned Space Engineering Office (CMSEO). At launch, it had a mass of 1842 kilograms, including its dry mass of 1500 kilograms. The satellite reached a stable orbit on November 18, 2016. Its reflective surface area (RCS) is measured at 3.5929 square meters.
Physical Characteristics
Length
2.3
Diameter
2.8
Span
4.3
Dry Mass
1500
Launch Mass
1842
Shape
Cyl + 2 pan
Radar Cross Section
3.5929
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Shenzhou 11 orbital module
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
CAST
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Shenzhou OM
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Space Brief 6 Jun 2025
Today's space news features significant discussions on the funding of Space Force, advancements in hypersonic technology, and the potential impacts of spectrum auction plans on border defense systems.
The Day We Banned the Word "Film"
On January 20, 1972, the second KH-9 HEXAGON lifted off from Vandenberg - carrying the most sophisticated reconnaissance system ever built by engineers who weren't allowed to say 'film,' 'camera,' or even talk to each other about what they were doing.
The Moon Landing That Almost Didn't Happen
Six hours behind schedule, with a backup engine system shuddering in lunar orbit and mission controllers in Houston running out of options, Apollo 16 came within one meeting of being sent home without landing. The problem was a wobble in a gimbal. The solution was math done under pressure.
Vietnam Licenses Starlink for 600K Terminals, Isaacman Plans Roscosmos Visit | KeepTrack Space Brief
Vietnam approves Starlink with up to 600,000 terminals and 4 gateway stations. SpaceX hits 600th Falcon 9 launch. NASA's Isaacman plans Roscosmos meeting and Soyuz visit.
Space Brief 1 Oct 2025
Today's brief covers an increase in Chinese satellite launches, the operational status of the Space Force's ATLAS software, and a significant fundraising event in the defense sector.
Space Brief 16 Dec 2025
Today's briefing covers the Space Force's AI integration, new naming conventions for satellites, and updates on military and satellite acquisition strategies.
Falcon 9 Lofts 46 Payloads Including CAS500-2 | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX's third rideshare mission of 2026 delivered South Korea's CAS500-2 imager and 45 secondary payloads to Sun-synchronous orbit on Falcon 9.