USA 33
Re-entered 1 May 1996USA 33 (NORAD 19625, COSPAR 1988-099A) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 1 May 1996, launched on 6 Nov 1988 on the Improved CRYSTAL 2103 mission. It is catalogued as Enhanced CRYSTAL 2103. It was operated by NRO / CIA as part of the CRYSTAL 3 programme. The spacecraft was built by TRW on the IC bus, with a mass of 8,500 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 USA 33?
USA 33 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 1 May 1996, ending a mission that began with its launch in 1988. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did USA 33 re-enter the atmosphere?
USA 33 re-entered on 1 May 1996, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built USA 33?
USA 33 was operated by NRO / CIA and built by TRW (US).