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SpaceX launches Starlink satellites from both coasts, while first 3D atmospheric map of an exoplanet reveals extreme weather patterns, and Starlink missions push total count over 8,000 satellites.
KZ-1A R/B (49257)
COSPAR: 2021-086B | Alt Name: KZ-1A Y4 Stage 4
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
September 27, 2021
Launch Site
JSC
Launch Pad
LC43/95A
Launch Vehicle
Kuaizhou-1A
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
49257
International Designator
2021-086B
Decay Date
10/11/2021
Basic Satellite Info
Name
KZ-1A R/B
Alternative Name
KZ-1A Y4 Stage 4
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
EXPACE
Country
China
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
1
Diameter
0.5
Span
1
Dry Mass
50
Launch Mass
50
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
KZ-1A Stage 4
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
CASIC
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Unknown
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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