Project Vanguard
How the U.S. Navy's Vanguard rocket became a Cold War icon, launched the world's oldest satellite still in orbit, and laid the groundwork for NASA's space exploration efforts.
OPS 4682 DEB (55116)
COSPAR: 1965-027HF | Alt Name: N/A
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
April 3, 1965
Launch Site
AFWTR
Launch Pad
PALC2-4
Launch Vehicle
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
55116
International Designator
1965-027HF
Epoch
Sun, 19 Jul 2026 17:29:44 GMT
Apogee
Calculating...
Perigee
Calculating...
Inclination
90.24°
Right Ascension
7.93°
Eccentricity
Calculating...
Argument of Perigee
257.02°
Period
110.85 min
Mean Motion
12.99 rev/day
Latitude
Calculating...
Longitude
Calculating...
Altitude
Calculating...
Velocity
Calculating...
Polar Plot
3D Visualization
Explore in the Catalog
Basic Satellite Info
Name
OPS 4682 DEB
Alternative Name
N/A
Type
Debris
Status
Space Junk
Owner
Unknown
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Latest TLEs
1 55116U 65027HF 26200.72898681 -.00000444 00000+0 -15185-2 0 9992
2 55116 90.2402 7.9268 0029865 257.0202 102.7585 12.98995317518306
Source: Celestrak
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
N/A
Diameter
N/A
Span
N/A
Dry Mass
N/A
Launch Mass
N/A
Shape
N/A
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Unknown
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
Unknown
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Unknown
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
Map
Next Pass
Azimuth Elevation Time (Local)
Start Azimuth
Max Elevation
Stop Azimuth
Time Until
Pass Duration
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
China's Rocket Factory Finds a Second Gear
In 2024, China launched 68 orbital missions. In 2025, the number jumped to 97. In 2026, state media and Western analysts agree the target is 140 or more. Most of that growth is being driven by two state-backed mega-constellations, a half-dozen private launch companies hitting stride, and a deliberate national pivot toward commercial space. Beijing is no longer trying to catch SpaceX. It is trying to build an industrial base that outlasts one.
Space Brief 13 Nov 2025
Delve into the latest on military AI leadership debates, Wedgetail funding increases, and the Army's Short Range Reconnaissance Program advancements. Explore how these developments influence satellite tracking and defense initiatives.
Starship Flight 13 Set for July 16, Will Deploy Live Starlinks | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX targets July 16 for Starship Flight 13, testing V3 fixes and deploying functioning Starlink satellites for the first time.
Space Brief 20 Nov 2025
Today's briefing covers a DARPA award for Redwire's innovative satellite project, Ursa Major's expansion in defense engines, a Rocket Lab military test flight, and more.
Space Brief 27 Feb 2025
Today's highlights include Rocket Lab's progress on the Space Force's VICTUS HAZE mission, BlackSky's new government contract, and AEI's policy recommendations for Space Force restructuring.
X Report 14 Jun 2025
SpaceX achieves significant milestones with the launch of new Starlink satellites and the production of its 10 millionth Starlink kit amidst ongoing challenges with space station delays.
X Report 17 Feb 2025
Key insights on Starship development challenges and latest Starlink satellite status.