Space Brief 17 Oct 2024
An exciting day in space with potential maneuver revelations from the X-37B, SpaceX's resumption of Falcon 9 launches, and significant advancements in lunar exploration tied to new U.S. spacesuits.
USA 296 (45170)
COSPAR: 2017-052D | Alt Name: USA 296
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
September 7, 2017
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
45170
International Designator
2017-052D
Decay Date
Unknown
Basic Satellite Info
Name
USA 296
Alternative Name
USA 296
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
AFSMC
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
USA 296, also known as Secret DoD Satellite 2, is a Cubesat operated by AFSMC and manufactured in the US. It was launched on September 7, 2017, from Launch Complex 39A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The satellite has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length and diameter, with a span of 0.3 meters, and a dry mass of 5 kilograms, identical to its launch mass. Its purpose is related to technology testing, but specific details are not provided. It achieved stable orbit on October 1, 2017.
Physical Characteristics
Length
0.3
Diameter
0.1
Span
0.3
Dry Mass
5
Launch Mass
5
Shape
Box
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Secret DoD Satellite 2
Purpose
Technology ?
Mission
Technology ?
Manufacturer
UNKUS
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Cubesat
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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