Space Brief 27 Jun 2025
Today's Space Brief covers potential changes in the procurement strategies for the Space Force, developments in missile detection technology, and budgetary impacts on space programs.
SL-6 R/B(1) (09881)
COSPAR: 1977-021B | Alt Name: Molniya-M 31-576 Blok-I
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
March 24, 1977
Launch Site
PLMSC
Launch Pad
LC43/4
Launch Vehicle
Molniya 8K78M
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
09881
International Designator
1977-021B
Decay Date
4/19/1977
Basic Satellite Info
Name
SL-6 R/B(1)
Alternative Name
Molniya-M 31-576 Blok-I
Type
Rocket Body
Status
Space Junk
Owner
RVSN
Country
USSR
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
6.7
Diameter
2.7
Span
6.7
Dry Mass
2350
Launch Mass
2350
Shape
Cyl
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
11S510
Purpose
Unknown
Mission
Unknown
Manufacturer
PROG
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Blok-I
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.
SpaceX Launches 2 Starlink Batches in 48 Hours, Both Coasts | KeepTrack X Report
SpaceX launched Starlink batches from Vandenberg and Cape Canaveral within 48 hours, pushing the active constellation toward 10,000 operational satellites.
X Report 10 May 2025
SpaceX continues its rapid launch cadence by deploying 28 Starlink satellites while expanding its service with collaborations such as United Airlines and Entel in Chile.
X Report 27 Apr 2025
SpaceX gears up for two major Starlink launches, while regulatory challenges slow progress in India.
Space Brief 17 Dec 2023
Rocket Lab's successful Electron return to flight, China's third Shenlong mission, lessons from Virgin Orbit's failure in the UK, Hubble's 30-year post-repair anniversary, and a summary of recent global launches.
X Report 4 Sep 2025
SpaceX conducted multiple successful launches this week, adding to its Starlink constellation and marking significant milestones in its ongoing missions.
Space Brief 14 Nov 2024
Today's brief covers potential shifts in Space Force's strategy, new milestones in military satellite programs, and advancements in ground systems for missile defense. We'll also highlight Rocket Lab's latest contract win and critical design reviews in drone technology.
SpaceX Postpones Falcon Heavy Launch Carrying Secretive X-37B Spaceplane
SpaceX delays the much-anticipated Falcon Heavy launch of the secretive X-37B military spaceplane, marking a significant moment in space exploration and military technology.