The Day Space Became Crowded
Eight years ago, a single Indian rocket launched 104 satellites into orbit, marking a pivotal moment when space tracking professionals realized the dawn of a new, congested era in orbital operations
NOAA 17 DEB (48714)
COSPAR: 2002-032AX | Alt Name: deb NOAA 17
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
June 24, 2002
Launch Site
AFWTR
Launch Pad
SLC4W
Launch Vehicle
Titan II SLV
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
48714
International Designator
2002-032AX
Decay Date
1/14/2026
Basic Satellite Info
Name
NOAA 17 DEB
Alternative Name
deb NOAA 17
Type
Debris
Status
Space Junk
Owner
NOAA
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
0
Diameter
0
Span
0
Dry Mass
0
Launch Mass
0
Shape
N/A
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Unknown
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
Unknown
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Unknown
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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