Space Brief 24 Dec 2025
Today's highlights include the successes and setbacks in recent rocket launches, a notable satellite anomaly, and a significant expansion announcement from ESA.
Launch Date
February 15, 2017
Launch Site
SRILR
Launch Pad
FLP
Launch Vehicle
PSLV-XL
NORAD ID
41972
International Designator
2017-008AA
Decay Date
1/12/2023
Name
FLOCK 3P-12
Alternative Name
Flock 3p-12
Type
Status
Owner
PLAN
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Length
0.3
Diameter
0.1
Span
0.3
Dry Mass
4.7
Launch Mass
4.7
Shape
Box+2 pan
Radar Cross Section
0.053
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Payload
Dove 1010
Purpose
Technology
Mission
Technology
Manufacturer
PLAN
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
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