Space Brief 18 Dec 2024
Today's highlights include SpaceX's rapid response GPS launch, Raytheon's new rocket motor test, and Starlink's revenue surge. Plus, the Space Force's modernization push.
SPUTNIK 22 DEB (00456)
COSPAR: 1962-057B | Alt Name: Molniya 8K78 T103-15 Blok-I
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
October 24, 1962
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC1
Launch Vehicle
Molniya 8K78
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
00456
International Designator
1962-057B
Decay Date
12/2/1962
Basic Satellite Info
Name
SPUTNIK 22 DEB
Alternative Name
Molniya 8K78 T103-15 Blok-I
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
9.4
Diameter
2.7
Span
9.4
Dry Mass
2000
Launch Mass
2000
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
8K78I
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
PROG
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Blok-I
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 7 Jul 2025
Today's key topics include the halting of the U.S. Air Force's rocket landing pad plans, the Space Force's shift to a flexible satellite strategy, delays in Australia's Eris 1 rocket launch, and the controversial cut of satellite sea-ice data to climate scientists.
Space Brief 26 Apr 2025
Today's brief covers major developments including the introduction of BAHA drones, increased defense spending by Estonia, and consequential announcements on military budgets impacting space-related activities.
X Report 4 Feb 2025
Canada reconsiders Starlink contract amidst US tariff delays, and new concerns arise over falling space debris.
The Multi-Orbit Myth? Why One Startup Thinks the Satellite Industry Got It Wrong
The satellite industry's biggest operators are betting on multi-orbit architectures that combine LEO, MEO, and GEO into unified networks. A San Francisco startup called Contrivian thinks they've overcomplicated the problem, and the physics might be on its side.
Space Brief 27 Oct 2024
Today's brief covers SpaceX's latest Starlink launch, updates on Crew-8's return, and preparations for the SLS Artemis II mission.
Artemis II
Four astronauts, a patched-together heat shield, and a $50 billion question: whether NASA can still send humans beyond low Earth orbit. Tomorrow, we find out.
Space Brief 21 Dec 2025
Today's briefing highlights the SDA's significant satellite award, Blue Origin's groundbreaking flight, and NASA's call for an Artemis review.