MPL
Re-entered 4 Jan 1999MPL (NORAD 25605, COSPAR 1999-001A) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 4 Jan 1999, launched on 3 Jan 1999 on the MPL mission. It was operated by JPL as part of the Mars Surveyor programme. The spacecraft was built by LMA/DENV on the Mars Surveyor bus, with a mass of 354 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 MPL?
MPL re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 4 Jan 1999, ending a mission that began with its launch in 1999. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did MPL re-enter the atmosphere?
MPL re-entered on 4 Jan 1999, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built MPL?
MPL was operated by JPL and built by LMA/DENV (US).