Space Brief 8 Jan 2025
Today's highlights include China's launch of Shijian-25 for on-orbit refueling tests, Pentagon's investment in defense technologies, and key military upgrades.
ELECTRON R/B (47255)
COSPAR: 2020-098C | Alt Name: Electron 17 Stage 2
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
December 15, 2020
Launch Site
RLLB
Launch Pad
LC1A
Launch Vehicle
Electron
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
47255
International Designator
2020-098C
Decay Date
12/28/2020
Basic Satellite Info
Name
ELECTRON R/B
Alternative Name
Electron 17 Stage 2
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
RLABN
Country
New Zealand
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
2.4
Diameter
1.2
Span
2.4
Dry Mass
250
Launch Mass
250
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Electron Stage 2
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
RLABN
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Electron St2
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.
When Will SpaceX Go Public?
As SpaceX continues to make groundbreaking advancements in the space industry, investors are eagerly anticipating the company's potential IPO. Learn about the factors influencing SpaceX's decision to go public and the estimated timeline for this highly anticipated event.
Space Brief 18 Sep 2025
Today's coverage includes China's recent satellite launch, the Space Force's challenges with current tracking capabilities, and advancements in nuclear propulsion from Ohio State.
Starlink Satellite Count Hits 10,087, X Report 22 Mar 2026
How many Starlink satellites are in orbit in 2026? 10,087 working of 10,097 on orbit, 11,612 launched to date, per KeepTrack data.
X Report 24 Aug 2025
SpaceX successfully launched its CRS-33 Dragon cargo mission to the ISS, while preparations for the upcoming Starship Flight 10 continue, highlighting significant advancements in both cargo operations and test flight reliability.
Blue Origin's New Glenn Destroyed in Static Fire Test at Cape Canaveral | KeepTrack Space Brief
Blue Origin's fourth New Glenn rocket exploded during static fire at LC-36, Cape Canaveral, destroying the fully stacked vehicle and pad infrastructure. Amazon Leo launch postponed indefinitely.
X Report 5 Nov 2025
Today's key development highlights SpaceX's upcoming launch of 29 Starlink satellites from Cape Canaveral, marking the start of an active month for the satellite constellation.
Space Brief 25 Feb 2025
Today's Space Brief covers imminent launches, new developments in space technology, and strategic military contributions to satellite defense systems.