Space Brief 26 Jun 2025
Exploring new defense agreements with Eutelsat, advances in U.S. Space Force projects, and updates on NATO's strategic discussions.
MIDAS 5 DEB (04494)
COSPAR: N/A | Alt Name: [Reassigned to S19981]
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
April 9, 1962
Launch Site
AFWTR
Launch Pad
Unknown
Launch Vehicle
Unknown
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
04494
International Designator
N/A
Decay Date
5/22/1977
Basic Satellite Info
Name
MIDAS 5 DEB
Alternative Name
[Reassigned to S19981]
Type
Debris
Status
Space Junk
Owner
AFSSD
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
Space debris, also known as space junk, encompasses all non-functional objects orbiting Earth such as defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, and fragments from collisions or disintegrations. Over time, this debris can accumulate and create an increasingly hazardous environment in orbit. Even tiny fragments, traveling at extremely high velocities, can inflict significant damage on operational satellites and spacecraft. If left unmanaged, the density of debris raises the risk of catastrophic collisions and further fragmentation, compounding the problem and threatening the safety and sustainability of space activities.
Physical Characteristics
Length
0.3
Diameter
0
Span
0.3
Dry Mass
1
Launch Mass
1
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
West Ford Drag Experiment
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
MITLL
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Westford Drag
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 25 May 2025
Today's brief covers crucial developments in satellite technology and operations, including new Starlink launches, groundbreaking satellite data on flood waves, and pivotal changes in South African telecom policy driven by Starlink.
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.
Space Brief 18 Sep 2025
Today's coverage includes China's recent satellite launch, the Space Force's challenges with current tracking capabilities, and advancements in nuclear propulsion from Ohio State.
Space Brief 8 Jul 2025
Today's highlights include the cancellation of Starship landing plans, Planet Labs' defense expansion, and cutting-edge radiation-hardened tech for space and defense.
B1067 Sets 36-Flight Booster Record on Starlink 10-42 | KeepTrack X Report
Booster B1067 hit 36 flights on July 9, while SpaceX files to expand Starlink to 100,000 satellites at 4,400 lbs each.
Rocket Lab Acquires 66-Satellite Iridium Constellation | KeepTrack Space Brief
Rocket Lab to acquire Iridium's 66-satellite LEO constellation for end-to-end vertical integration. Deal includes spacecraft manufacturing, launch, and on-orbit operations control.
X Report 6 Mar 2025
Starship Flight 8 set for launch, new milestones in the defense sector, and launch updates dominate today's news.