Space Brief 30 Jun 2025
Today's highlights include SpaceX's record-breaking launches, Japan's final H-2A launch, and significant developments in satellite data policies impacting weather forecasting.
EXPLORER 46 DEB (06146)
COSPAR: 1972-061C | Alt Name: Explorer 46 despin weight
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
August 13, 1972
Launch Site
WLPIS
Launch Pad
LA3A
Launch Vehicle
Scout D-1
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
06146
International Designator
1972-061C
Decay Date
5/25/1978
Basic Satellite Info
Name
EXPLORER 46 DEB
Alternative Name
Explorer 46 despin weight
Type
Debris
Status
Space Junk
Owner
LARCN
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
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
0
Diameter
0
Span
0
Dry Mass
0
Launch Mass
0
Shape
N/A
Radar Cross Section
0.1092
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
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