Space Brief 18 Dec 2025
Today's updates cover Rocket Lab's launch for the U.S. Space Force, Digantara's major funding round, and discussions on national security in space.
FALCON 9 DEB (46177)
COSPAR: 2020-057BN | Alt Name: Starlink deployment rail
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
August 18, 2020
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
46177
International Designator
2020-057BN
Decay Date
9/15/2020
Basic Satellite Info
Name
FALCON 9 DEB
Alternative Name
Starlink deployment rail
Type
Debris
Status
Space Junk
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
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
7
Diameter
0.02
Span
7
Dry Mass
100
Launch Mass
100
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Unknown
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
SPXS
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Unknown
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 10 Nov 2025
Today's brief covers China's record-breaking launch year, SpaceX's continued Starlink deployments, Blue Origin's launch challenges, and innovations in satellite maneuverability.
The Day Soviet Women Reached for the Stars
Sixty-three years ago, the Soviet Union selected the world's first female cosmonaut training group, launching a new era in human spaceflight that would transform our understanding of gender equality in space exploration
Space Brief 23 Oct 2025
Today's updates cover Vantor's satellites overcoming tracking challenges, a startup's ambitious missile defense test, and more pivotal space events.
Starship V3 Flight 12 Succeeds Despite Engine Shutdown | KeepTrack X Report
Starship V3 completed Flight 12 on May 22 despite one vacuum Raptor shutting down early, with SpaceX's IPO filing revealing bold Starlink Mobile ambitions.
Space Brief 7 Nov 2024
Today's Space Brief covers major upcoming launches from SpaceX, US military missile tests, and developments in Virgin Galactic's fleet expansion. Stay informed on key satellite events and launch updates.
Geosynchronous Orbit (GEO)
Understanding the unique orbital sweet spot that keeps satellites perfectly positioned above Earth
SpaceX Launches 500th Starlink Satellite of 2026, Microsoft Partnership Announced | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX launches 500th Starlink satellite of 2026 on 540th reused booster flight. Microsoft partners with Starlink for rural internet expansion. NASA reveals first ISS medical evacuation details.