Space Brief 18 Aug 2025
Today's Space Brief covers significant satellite launches by SpaceX, an automated collision avoidance system development, Rocket Lab's strategic acquisition, and the rise of corporate-named satellites in orbit.
FLOCK 4V-1 (46313)
COSPAR: 2020-061AT | Alt Name: Flock 4v-1
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
46313
International Designator
2020-061AT
Decay Date
4/14/2024
Basic Satellite Info
Name
FLOCK 4V-1
Alternative Name
Flock 4v-1
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
PLAN
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
FLOCK 4V-1 is a CubeSat (3U) satellite designed for technology demonstration purposes and manufactured by PLAN in the United States. Launched on September 3, 2020, from French Guiana’s ZLV launch pad using a Vega launch vehicle, it has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length, 0.1 meters in diameter, and spans 0.3 meters. The satellite weighs 5.7 kilograms both at launch and as dry mass. Equipped with PS0, PS1 or PS2 imaging payload (Dove 227c), it relies on solar cells and batteries for power. FLOCK 4V-1 is expected to have a lifespan of approximately one year in an ISS orbit and two to three years in SSO. The satellite's shape consists of a box with two panels, and its mission focuses on technological advancements.
Physical Characteristics
Length
0.3
Diameter
0.1
Span
0.3
Dry Mass
5.7
Launch Mass
5.7
Shape
Box+2 pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Dove 227c
Purpose
Technology
Mission
Technology
Manufacturer
PLAN
Life Expectancy
~ 1 year (ISS orbit); 2-3 years (SSO)
Bus
Cubesat 3U
Configuration
CubeSat (3U)
Motor
None (most); FEEP (#Flock-3p')
Equipment
PS0, PS1 or PS2 imaging payload
Power System
Solar cells, batteries
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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