Space Brief 11 Feb 2025
Today's highlights include the debut of a new Chinese rocket, a successful Starlink launch, and concerns about Artemis 3. We also cover DoD developments and a notable SpaceX milestone.
EXPLORER 23 DEB (06731)
COSPAR: 1964-074D | Alt Name: deb Explorer 23
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
November 6, 1964
Launch Site
WLPIS
Launch Pad
LA3
Launch Vehicle
Scout X-4
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
06731
International Designator
1964-074D
Decay Date
1/2/1974
Basic Satellite Info
Name
EXPLORER 23 DEB
Alternative Name
deb Explorer 23
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
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
[or Skylab part]
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
Satellite Articles
View All Posts »Learn more about satellites and other related topics.
The Day Superpowers Shared Space
Exactly 52 years ago today, the Soviet Union launched Soyuz 13 - a scientific mission that marked the first time American astronauts and Soviet cosmonauts orbited Earth simultaneously. Armed with a revolutionary ultraviolet telescope, Pyotr Klimuk and Valentin Lebedev would discover elements never before seen in distant nebulae.
Satellites by Country
Explore a comprehensive breakdown of satellite counts by country, detailing the USA, Russia, China, and others.
Trump Nominates Lt. Gen. Schiess as 3rd Space Force Chief | KeepTrack Space Brief
Lt. Gen. Doug Schiess nominated to lead Space Force, becoming the third Chief of Operations since the service's 2019 founding. Pentagon clears 8 firms for classified AI access.
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
Sandhoo Takes Dual SDA Director, Missile Warning Role | KeepTrack Space Brief
Brig. Gen. Gursharan Sandhoo double-hatted as SDA director and Space Force missile warning PAE head as Pentagon consolidates LEO satellite programs under new acquisition structure.
Space Brief 28 May 2025
Today's briefing covers SpaceX's ambitious launch and temporary setback with their Super Heavy booster, adjustments in South African telecommunications laws influenced by Starlink, and the U.S. Navy's strategic shifts amidst changes in unmanned combatant acquisitions.
X Report 20 Aug 2025
SpaceX makes significant strides with Starship Flight Test 10 approved and updates on the new Starbase pad design.