Argon No. 48L
Re-entered 15 Jul 1981Argon No. 48L (NORAD 12571, COSPAR 1981-062A) was a SU satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 15 Jul 1981, launched on 1 Jul 1981 on the Zenit-6 mission. It was operated by GUKOS as part of the Zenit-6 programme. The spacecraft was built by TSSKB on the Zenit-6 bus, with a mass of 2,655 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 Argon No. 48L?
Argon No. 48L re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 15 Jul 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 Argon No. 48L re-enter the atmosphere?
Argon No. 48L re-entered on 15 Jul 1981, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built Argon No. 48L?
Argon No. 48L was operated by GUKOS and built by TSSKB (SU).