Launch Date
February 17, 1971
Launch Site
AFWTR
Launch Pad
SLC10W
Launch Vehicle
Thor Burner 2
NORAD ID
04957
International Designator
1971-012C
Decay Date
10/17/1989
Name
OPS 5268 (CALSPHERE 3)
Alternative Name
S70-4 Drag Sphere
Type
Status
Owner
Naval Research Laboratory
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Apologies, there is no summary for this satellite yet. I am working to generate these for every object in the catalog, but it is going to take time.
Length
0.3
Diameter
0.3
Span
0.3
Dry Mass
1
Launch Mass
1
Shape
Sphere
Radar Cross Section
0.2684
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Payload
NRL PL170A
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
Naval Research Laboratory
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
NRL 10
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
Sixty years ago, a pioneering spacecraft called Ranger 8 captured thousands of detailed photographs of the lunar surface before intentionally crashing into the Moon, helping pave the way for humanity's first steps on another world
Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket exploded at Cape Canaveral's LC-36, causing visible pad damage and a year-plus grounding. NASA lunar plans affected.
Trump approaches Elon Musk about restoring Iran internet via Starlink during government blackout. SpaceX completes fifth launch of 2026 with 29 Starlink satellites from Cape Canaveral.
SpaceX wraps up a record-breaking year with successful launches and advancements in Starlink mega-constellation.
Katalyst's Link spacecraft passes key testing milestone ahead of June 2026 launch to rescue NASA's $500M SPARCS telescope. In-space servicing mission will create trackable conjunction risk during approach and docking phase.
Today’s highlights include new defense initiatives in the U.S., potential strategic shifts in Europe, and the establishment of council to counter security threats.
SpaceX gears up for its next Starship flight while recent Falcon 9 missions make headlines with spectacular launches, bringing fresh Starlink satellites into orbit.
Rocket Lab to acquire Iridium's 66-satellite LEO constellation for end-to-end vertical integration. Deal includes spacecraft manufacturing, launch, and on-orbit operations control.
