Space Brief 27 Oct 2025
Today's space highlights include the US Space Force's advanced tracking contract, a milestone in SpaceX's Starlink program, and a new initiative to remove space debris.
EXPLORER 17 (S-6) (00564)
COSPAR: 1963-009A | Alt Name: Explorer 17
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
April 3, 1963
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC17A
Launch Vehicle
Thor Delta B
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
00564
International Designator
1963-009A
Decay Date
11/24/1966
Basic Satellite Info
Name
EXPLORER 17 (S-6)
Alternative Name
Explorer 17
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
GSFC
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
Apologies, there is no summary for this satellite yet. I am working to generate these for every object in the catalog, but it is going to take time.
Physical Characteristics
Length
0.9
Diameter
0.9
Span
1.8
Dry Mass
184
Launch Mass
184
Shape
Sphere + Ant
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
AE-A
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
GSFC
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
S-6
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.
X Report 16 Jul 2025
SpaceX successfully launched another batch of Starlink satellites while marking a significant milestone with the 500th Falcon 9 mission. Additionally, the company is preparing for further testing of its Starship system and has begun collaborating with Amazon on their Project Kuiper constellation.
Space Brief 22 Oct 2025
Today's briefing covers space-based missile defense, AI maritime surveillance, and new governmental shifts impacting the defense sector.
Space Brief 27 Apr 2025
Today's highlights include SpaceX's dual Starlink launches, NASA's progress on the Dragonfly mission to Titan, and delays in Starlink's Indian market entry.
Space Brief 26 Jul 2025
Today's brief highlights the maiden flight of Blue Origin's Blue Ring spacecraft with a new AI-driven space sensor, debates on asteroid defense responsibilities, and updates on the U.S. Space Force's missile shield leadership.
The Day Apollo 14 Restored NASA's Lunar Dreams
Fifty-four years ago, a Saturn V rocket lifted off carrying three astronauts determined to prove America could still reach the Moon after the near-disaster of Apollo 13
X Report 12 Apr 2025
Key developments include the launch of Starshield satellites for the NRO and updates on Starlink launches and NASA access concerns involving Elon Musk's team.
SpaceX Names AI Megaconstellation "Starmind" | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX officially names its planned AI megaconstellation Starmind while a Falcon 9 upper stage targets a lunar impact this August.