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🛰️ SATELLITE · HISTORICAL RECORD

Gemini SC12

Re-entered 12 Nov 1966

Gemini SC12 (NORAD 2566, COSPAR 1966-104A) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 12 Nov 1966, launched on 11 Nov 1966 on the Gemini SC12 mission. It was operated by MSC as part of the Gemini programme. The spacecraft was built by MCDA on the Gemini bus, with a mass of 2,178 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.

1966
launched
1966
re-entered
0
years on orbit
2,178
kg mass

Lifecycle

Launched11 Nov 1966 · on the Gemini SC12 mission
Operational15 Nov 1966 · entered service
Retired15 Nov 1966 · end of operational service
Re-entered12 Nov 1966 · atmospheric re-entry — object destroyed

Specifications

NORAD ID2566
COSPAR1966-104A
TypeSatellite
OperatorMSC
Country / StateUS
ManufacturerMCDA
BusGemini
Mass2,178 kg
ProgrammeGemini
CategorySS
OrbitLEO (LLEO/I)
Altitude252 × 291 km
Inclination28.8°

Frequently asked questions

What happened to Gemini SC12?

Gemini SC12 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 12 Nov 1966, ending a mission that began with its launch in 1966. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.

When did Gemini SC12 re-enter the atmosphere?

Gemini SC12 re-entered on 12 Nov 1966, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.

Who operated and built Gemini SC12?

Gemini SC12 was operated by MSC and built by MCDA (US).

Historical record from the Orbital Radar satellite archive. Sources & methodology: data sources. Accessed 2026-09-06.