Space Brief 21 Apr 2025
Today's briefing highlights SpaceX's recent launch of spy satellites, a US Space Force contract for deep space tracking, and advancements in quantum communications in space.
SL-4 R/B (48160)
COSPAR: 2021-029B | Alt Name: Soyuz-2-1a No. 046 Blok-I
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
April 9, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC31
Launch Vehicle
Soyuz-2-1A
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
48160
International Designator
2021-029B
Decay Date
4/13/2021
Basic Satellite Info
Name
SL-4 R/B
Alternative Name
Soyuz-2-1a No. 046 Blok-I
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
RVSNR
Country
Russia
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
6.7
Diameter
2.7
Span
6.7
Dry Mass
2350
Launch Mass
2350
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Blok-I 14S54 374BL02A
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
PROGT
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Blok-I
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
RD-0110
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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