Iridium SV051
Re-entered 14 Mar 2026Iridium SV051 (NORAD 25262, COSPAR 1998-018A) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 14 Mar 2026, launched on 25 Mar 1998 on the Iridium SV051 mission. It was operated by IRID as part of the Iridium programme. The spacecraft was built by MOTO on the LM700 bus, with a mass of 667 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 Iridium SV051?
Iridium SV051 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 14 Mar 2026, ending a mission that began with its launch in 1998. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did Iridium SV051 re-enter the atmosphere?
Iridium SV051 re-entered on 14 Mar 2026, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
How long was Iridium SV051 operational?
Iridium SV051 was operational for roughly 20 years, from 1 May 1998 to 18 Nov 2017.
Who operated and built Iridium SV051?
Iridium SV051 was operated by IRID and built by MOTO (US).