Space Brief 21 Nov 2024
Today's brief covers influential space events including Space Force's interest in Starship, U.S. military constellation advancements, and technological developments in counter-drone capabilities.
CZ-3B R/B (49506)
COSPAR: 2021-114B | Alt Name: CZ-3B Y79 Stage 3
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
November 26, 2021
Launch Site
XICLF
Launch Pad
LC2
Launch Vehicle
Chang Zheng 3B
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
49506
International Designator
2021-114B
Decay Date
5/10/2023
Basic Satellite Info
Name
CZ-3B R/B
Alternative Name
CZ-3B Y79 Stage 3
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
CASC
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
12.4
Diameter
3
Span
12.4
Dry Mass
2800
Launch Mass
8400
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
CZ-3B Stage 3
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
CALT
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
CZ-3A Stage 3
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.
China's Rocket Factory Finds a Second Gear
In 2024, China launched 68 orbital missions. In 2025, the number jumped to 97. In 2026, state media and Western analysts agree the target is 140 or more. Most of that growth is being driven by two state-backed mega-constellations, a half-dozen private launch companies hitting stride, and a deliberate national pivot toward commercial space. Beijing is no longer trying to catch SpaceX. It is trying to build an industrial base that outlasts one.
X Report 16 Sep 2025
SpaceX continues to make headlines with successful launches and advancements in satellite technology. Notably, a Falcon 9 rocket delivered an upgraded Cygnus spacecraft to the ISS amid a busy launch schedule this week.
Space Brief 2 Apr 2025
DARPA's accidental SpaceX detection highlights Earth as a natural sensor, while SpaceX's Fram2 launches into a polar orbit. Helsinki's defense budget rise hints at increased military satellite activity.
Artemis 2 Tracker - Follow Orion's Flight Path in 3D
Follow the complete Artemis II mission in KeepTrack's 3D tracker. Replay Orion's full flight path from launch through the lunar flyby to Pacific splashdown, and scrub to any moment of the ten-day mission.
Space Brief 27 Oct 2024
Today's brief covers SpaceX's latest Starlink launch, updates on Crew-8's return, and preparations for the SLS Artemis II mission.
X Report 29 Apr 2025
SpaceX achieves a significant milestone with its 250th Starlink mission, and Starlink eyes expansion into South Korea amid rising global demand for satellite internet. Meanwhile, Amazon's Project Kuiper launches its first operational mission, marking increased competition for Starlink.
Space Brief 22 Aug 2025
SpaceX's X-37B spaceplane launch, featuring advanced tech, highlights today’s space events. The launch of the first reprogrammable navigation satellite by the US Space Force is another significant milestone.