Molniya-1K No. 73L
Re-entered 13 Feb 1999Molniya-1K No. 73L (NORAD 16187, COSPAR 1985-099A) was a SU satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 13 Feb 1999, launched on 23 Oct 1985 on the Molniya-1 11F658 No. 73 mission. It was operated by GUKOS as part of the Molniya-1K programme. The spacecraft was built by NPOPM on the Molniya-1 bus, with a mass of 1,650 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.
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Frequently asked questions
What happened to Molniya-1K No. 73L?
Molniya-1K No. 73L re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 13 Feb 1999, ending a mission that began with its launch in 1985. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did Molniya-1K No. 73L re-enter the atmosphere?
Molniya-1K No. 73L re-entered on 13 Feb 1999, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built Molniya-1K No. 73L?
Molniya-1K No. 73L was operated by GUKOS and built by NPOPM (SU).