Space Brief 4 Dec 2025
Today's brief covers SpaceX's Starship launch approval, Antares' nuclear funding, and shifts in global space defense strategies.
ANTARES R/B (45177)
COSPAR: 2020-011C | Alt Name: Antares A-12 Stage 2
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
45177
International Designator
2020-011C
Decay Date
2/23/2020
Basic Satellite Info
Name
ANTARES R/B
Alternative Name
Antares A-12 Stage 2
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
NGISW
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
A rocket body, also commonly referred to as an upper stage or spent rocket stage, is the structural shell left behind after a rocket has delivered its payload to orbit. These large and often heavy pieces of space hardware can remain in orbit for years, posing significant collision hazards as part of the growing space debris problem. If left uncontrolled, rocket bodies have the potential to reenter Earth's atmosphere unpredictably, which can lead to falling debris in populated areas. Additionally, they risk colliding with operational satellites or the International Space Station, creating more debris and putting human life at risk.
Physical Characteristics
Length
6
Diameter
2.4
Span
6
Dry Mass
1220
Launch Mass
1220
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Castor 30XL
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
NGISH/NGISW
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Castor 30
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Castor 30XL
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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