Ikar No. 59L
Re-entered 2 Dec 2025Ikar No. 59L (NORAD 18421, COSPAR 1987-088A) was a SU satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 2 Dec 2025, launched on 20 Oct 1987 on the Tselina-D mission. It was operated by GRU as part of the Tselina-D programme. The spacecraft was built by YUZH on the Tselina-D bus, with a mass of 1,750 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 Ikar No. 59L?
Ikar No. 59L re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 2 Dec 2025, ending a mission that began with its launch in 1987. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did Ikar No. 59L re-enter the atmosphere?
Ikar No. 59L re-entered on 2 Dec 2025, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built Ikar No. 59L?
Ikar No. 59L was operated by GRU and built by YUZH (SU).