Pioneer 6
Re-entered 18 Dec 1965Pioneer 6 (NORAD 1841, COSPAR 1965-105A) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 18 Dec 1965, launched on 16 Dec 1965 on the Pioneer A mission. It is catalogued as Pioneer A. It was operated by ARC as part of the Solar Pioneer programme. The spacecraft was built by TRW on the Solar Pioneer bus, with a mass of 63 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 Pioneer 6?
Pioneer 6 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 18 Dec 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 Pioneer 6 re-enter the atmosphere?
Pioneer 6 re-entered on 18 Dec 1965, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
How long was Pioneer 6 operational?
Pioneer 6 was operational for roughly 26 years, from 1 Jan 1975 to 8 Dec 2000.
Who operated and built Pioneer 6?
Pioneer 6 was operated by ARC and built by TRW (US).