NEAR
Re-entered 18 Feb 1996NEAR (NORAD 23784, COSPAR 1996-008A) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 18 Feb 1996, launched on 17 Feb 1996 on the NEAR mission. It was operated by GSFC as part of the Discovery programme. The spacecraft was built by APL on the NEAR bus, with a mass of 805 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 NEAR?
NEAR re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 18 Feb 1996, ending a mission that began with its launch in 1996. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did NEAR re-enter the atmosphere?
NEAR re-entered on 18 Feb 1996, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built NEAR?
NEAR was operated by GSFC and built by APL (US).