Space Brief 9 Jan 2025
Today's briefing includes new appointments in U.S. military and defense sectors, X-37B's continued mission, and international policy shifts affecting satellite technology sales.
FALCON 9 DEB (49777)
COSPAR: 2021-115BF | Alt Name: Starlink deployment rail
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
December 2, 2021
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
49777
International Designator
2021-115BF
Decay Date
4/15/2023
Basic Satellite Info
Name
FALCON 9 DEB
Alternative Name
Starlink deployment rail
Type
Debris
Status
Space Junk
Owner
SPXS
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
7
Diameter
0.02
Span
7
Dry Mass
100
Launch Mass
100
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Unknown
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
SPXS
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Unknown
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.
Space Brief 20 Jun 2025
Today's brief covers the nomination of a new Space Force leader, partnership efforts by Lockheed, Sweden's defense budget delay, Israeli military actions, Proba-3's imaging breakthrough, and Starlink's license to operate in India.
Falcon Heavy Returns After 18-Month Hiatus, Lofts ViaSat-3 F3 | KeepTrack X Report
Falcon Heavy completed its 12th flight ever on April 29, ending an 18-month stand-down by lofting the 6-ton ViaSat-3 F3 comsat to GTO.
Space Brief 25 Mar 2025
Today's brief covers SpaceX's launch of a secret US spy satellite, national security satellite launches, and Japan's missile ambitions. Also highlighted are Estonia's AI defense upgrades and autonomous airpower in Australia.
X Report 27 Nov 2024
SpaceX secures FCC nod for Starlink's direct-to-phone connectivity, lands NASA's Dragonfly mission, and sees new competition with the ZhuQue-2E launch.
The Day America's Moon Rocket Began Its Journey
Fifty-nine years ago, a revolutionary new rocket thundered skyward from Cape Kennedy, testing the spacecraft that would eventually carry astronauts to the lunar surface
US Agency Will Not Reinstate $900 Mln Subsidy for SpaceX Starlink Unit
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission reaffirms its decision to deny SpaceX's Starlink unit $885.5 million in rural broadband subsidies, impacting the company's plans for expanding internet access.
Space Brief 28 Feb 2025
Today's brief covers defense industry dynamics, advancements in quantum sensor technology, and geopolitical challenges impacting military space operations.