Space Brief 20 Jul 2025
Today's highlights include a SpaceX launch of Starlink satellites, a pivotal delivery to the Space Force, and significant Senate funding for NASA missions.
SL-7 R/B (05233)
COSPAR: 1971-044B | Alt Name: Kosmos-2 (N76) Stage 2
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
May 19, 1971
Launch Site
PLMSC
Launch Pad
LC133/3
Launch Vehicle
Kosmos 11K63
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
05233
International Designator
1971-044B
Decay Date
8/23/1971
Basic Satellite Info
Name
SL-7 R/B
Alternative Name
Kosmos-2 (N76) Stage 2
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
RVSN
Country
USSR
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
8
Diameter
1.6
Span
8
Dry Mass
840
Launch Mass
840
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
S1M
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
YUZH
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
S1
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 19 Jul 2025
Today's highlights include a record-breaking high-altitude image of the sun, SpaceX's latest Starlink satellite launch, and various military developments. Stay informed with detailed updates on launches, reentries, and the latest advancements in drone technology.
10,168 Starlink Satellites in Orbit, X Report 6 Apr 2026
Current number of Starlink satellites in orbit April 2026: 10,168 working of 10,177 tracked, 11,724 launched. Fleet health tops 99.9%.
Space Brief 15 Feb 2025
Today's highlights include SpaceX's record-setting Starlink launch, Redwire's contract for USSF, and military satellite developments.
X Report 21 Dec 2024
SpaceX prepares for Bandwagon-2 rideshare mission launch, while FAA updates license for Starship's next flight; Crew Dragon mission faces delays.
SpaceX Starfall Reentry Vehicle Plans Revealed by FAA | KeepTrack X Report
FAA documents expose SpaceX's Starfall reentry vehicle program, targeting in-space manufacturing support as the Starlink constellation holds 10,397 working satellites.
X Report 11 Feb 2025
SpaceX successfully launches 23 Starlink satellites, NASA selects SpaceX for astrophysics mission, and Starship Flight 8 advances with Booster 15 static fire.
Space Force Awards $1.8B Andromeda Program to 14 Firms | KeepTrack Space Brief
Space Force selects 14 companies for $1.8 billion Andromeda program to replace GSSAP geosynchronous surveillance satellites with commercial alternatives through 2036.