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🛰️ SATELLITE · HISTORICAL RECORD

Gemini SC3

Re-entered 23 Mar 1965

Gemini SC3 (NORAD 1301, COSPAR 1965-024A) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 23 Mar 1965, launched on 23 Mar 1965 on the Gemini SC3 mission. It was operated by MSC as part of the Gemini programme. The spacecraft was built by MCDA on the Gemini bus, with a mass of 2,075 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.

1965
launched
1965
re-entered
0
years on orbit
2,075
kg mass

Lifecycle

Launched23 Mar 1965 · on the Gemini SC3 mission
Operational23 Mar 1965 · entered service
Retired23 Mar 1965 · end of operational service
Re-entered23 Mar 1965 · atmospheric re-entry — object destroyed

Specifications

NORAD ID1301
COSPAR1965-024A
TypeSatellite
OperatorMSC
Country / StateUS
ManufacturerMCDA
BusGemini
Mass2,075 kg
ProgrammeGemini
CategorySS
OrbitLEO (LLEO/I)
Altitude161 × 225 km
Inclination32.6°

Frequently asked questions

What happened to Gemini SC3?

Gemini SC3 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 23 Mar 1965, ending a mission that began with its launch in 1965. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.

When did Gemini SC3 re-enter the atmosphere?

Gemini SC3 re-entered on 23 Mar 1965, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.

Who operated and built Gemini SC3?

Gemini SC3 was operated by MSC and built by MCDA (US).

Historical record from the Orbital Radar satellite archive. Sources & methodology: data sources. Accessed 2026-09-06.