Iridium 33 and Cosmos 2251 Satellite Collision (Evolve-based, statistical break-up model)

On February 10 at approximately 1656 GMT, the Iridium 33 and Cosmos 2251 communications satellites collided over northern Siberia. This video (courtesy of Analytical Graphics, Inc. www.agi.com) shows a simulation of the collision with an Evolve-based, statistical break-up model.

This is a 1000 object statistical sample of more than 2,600 fragments predicted using a modification of the NASA Evolve debris model. This model abstracts structural and material fragmentation physics. Outcomes depend on the degree of contact between the two satellites, distinguishing between portions totally involved and those outside the contact area. This depiction uses initial on-orbit masses of 685 Kg for Iridium and 900 kg for Cosmos 2251 and assumes 30% direct contact for each object. The model can also release instantaneously energy stored in unexpended propellants, although that capability was not used in this case.

Source: http://www.agi.com/corporate/mediaCenter/news/iridium-cosmos/

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• satellite
• collision
• space
• debris
• junk
• iridium
• cosmos
• agi
• stk
• simulation

[oz9aec]

As of 3 June 2009, there are still 336 pieces of Iridium debris (13 decayed) and 795 Cosmos debris (22 decayed) or a total of 1,131 pieces minus 35 decayed.

Source: CelesTrak.

[misfit1978]

Sorry, ignore that comment, wrong page!

[misfit1978]

What's the tune called please?