The Space Station Space Race
As the International Space Station nears retirement, private companies are stepping up to fill the void with their own space stations. Discover the key players and the potential impact on space exploration.
Launch Date
January 31, 2020
Launch Site
RLLB
Launch Pad
LC1A
Launch Vehicle
Electron
NORAD ID
45110
International Designator
2020-007A
Decay Date
Unknown
Name
USA 294
Alternative Name
USA 294
Type
Status
Owner
NROC
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Length
1
Diameter
1
Span
3
Dry Mass
150
Launch Mass
150
Shape
Box +2 pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Payload
[NRO Unk Smallsat 1
Purpose
Technology ?
Mission
Technology ?
Manufacturer
HARRL3
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
NRO Unk Small
Configuration
?
Motor
?
Equipment
?
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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As the International Space Station nears retirement, private companies are stepping up to fill the void with their own space stations. Discover the key players and the potential impact on space exploration.
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