Space Brief 17 Dec 2023
Rocket Lab's successful Electron return to flight, China's third Shenlong mission, lessons from Virgin Orbit's failure in the UK, Hubble's 30-year post-repair anniversary, and a summary of recent global launches.
DELTA 1 R/B (05499)
COSPAR: 1971-083C | Alt Name: Delta 85
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
September 29, 1971
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC17A
Launch Vehicle
Thor Delta N
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
05499
International Designator
1971-083C
Decay Date
1/24/1974
Basic Satellite Info
Name
DELTA 1 R/B
Alternative Name
Delta 85
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
GSFC
Country
United States
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
5.2
Diameter
1.4
Span
5.2
Dry Mass
785
Launch Mass
785
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
DSV-3E-3 85
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
AJ
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Ablestar
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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