USA 41
Re-entered 1 Nov 1991USA 41 (NORAD 20172, COSPAR 1989-061C) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 1 Nov 1991, launched on 8 Aug 1989 on the OV-102 Medium deploy mission. It is catalogued as GLORIA I. It was operated by NRO / SAFSP as part of the NRO Sig Tech programme. The spacecraft was built by BALL on the MPEC bus, with a mass of 125 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 41?
USA 41 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 1 Nov 1991, ending a mission that began with its launch in 1989. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did USA 41 re-enter the atmosphere?
USA 41 re-entered on 1 Nov 1991, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
How long was USA 41 operational?
USA 41 was operational for roughly 10 months, from 1 Jan 1991 to 1 Nov 1991.
Who operated and built USA 41?
USA 41 was operated by NRO / SAFSP and built by BALL (US).