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DELTA 1 R/B(2) (05978)
COSPAR: 1968-116B | Alt Name: Delta 63 Stage 3
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
December 19, 1968
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC17A
Launch Vehicle
Thor Delta M
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
05978
International Designator
1968-116B
Decay Date
1/26/2005
Basic Satellite Info
Name
DELTA 1 R/B(2)
Alternative Name
Delta 63 Stage 3
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
1
Diameter
0.9
Span
1
Dry Mass
65
Launch Mass
718
Shape
Sphere + Cone
Radar Cross Section
1.2542
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Star 37D S/N 011
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
THKE
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Star 37
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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