GAMBIT-3 FM-51
Re-entered 20 Jun 1981GAMBIT-3 FM-51 (NORAD 12315, COSPAR 1981-019A) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 20 Jun 1981, launched on 28 Feb 1981 on the GAMBIT-3 Mission 4351 mission. It was operated by NRO / SAFSP as part of the KH8E programme. The spacecraft was built by LMSC on the KH-8 bus, with a mass of 2,400 kg. Like most satellites in low orbits, it was gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until re-entry. Historical record from Orbital Radar's satellite archive, cross-referenced with the live satellite catalogue.
Lifecycle
Specifications
Frequently asked questions
What happened to GAMBIT-3 FM-51?
GAMBIT-3 FM-51 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 20 Jun 1981, ending a mission that began with its launch in 1981. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did GAMBIT-3 FM-51 re-enter the atmosphere?
GAMBIT-3 FM-51 re-entered on 20 Jun 1981, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built GAMBIT-3 FM-51?
GAMBIT-3 FM-51 was operated by NRO / SAFSP and built by LMSC (US).