The Day Space Became Crowded
Eight years ago, a single Indian rocket launched 104 satellites into orbit, marking a pivotal moment when space tracking professionals realized the dawn of a new, congested era in orbital operations
SL-12 PLAT (04529)
COSPAR: 1970-072C | Alt Name: D-203L SOZ-2
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
September 12, 1970
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC81/23
Launch Vehicle
Proton-K/D
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
04529
International Designator
1970-072C
Decay Date
9/15/1970
Basic Satellite Info
Name
SL-12 PLAT
Alternative Name
D-203L SOZ-2
Type
Debris
Status
Space Junk
Owner
RVSN
Country
USSR
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
1.1
Diameter
0.5
Span
1.1
Dry Mass
60
Launch Mass
120
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
SOZ
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
TSKBEM
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
SOZ
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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