Space Brief 25 Jul 2025
Today's briefing covers Spire Global's new intelligence products, a significant military buildup in the Pacific, Space Force organizational changes, and more.
Launch Date
January 3, 2023
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC40
Launch Vehicle
NORAD ID
55069
International Designator
2023-001BN
Decay Date
5/6/2025
Name
FLOCK 4Y-9
Alternative Name
Flock 4y-9
Type
Status
Owner
PLAN
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Length
0.3
Diameter
0.1
Span
0.3
Dry Mass
5.7
Launch Mass
5.7
Shape
Box+2 pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Payload
Dove 24a8
Purpose
Technology
Mission
Technology
Manufacturer
PLAN
Life Expectancy
~ 1 year (ISS orbit); 2-3 years (SSO)
Bus
Cubesat 3U
Configuration
CubeSat (3U)
Motor
None (most); FEEP (#Flock-3p')
Equipment
PS0, PS1 or PS2 imaging payload
Power System
Solar cells, batteries
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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