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Cluster FM5 (C1)

Re-entered 22 Oct 2025

Cluster FM5 (C1) (NORAD 26463, COSPAR 2000-045A) was a I-ESA satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 22 Oct 2025, launched on 9 Aug 2000 on the Cluster FM5 (C1) mission. It was operated by ESA as part of the ESA Cluster programme. The spacecraft was built by ASTDF on the Cluster bus, with a mass of 1,186 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.

2000
launched
2025
re-entered
25
years on orbit
1,186
kg mass

Lifecycle

Launched9 Aug 2000 · on the Cluster FM5 (C1) mission
Operational30 Sep 2024 · entered service
Retired30 Sep 2024 · end of operational service
Re-entered22 Oct 2025 · atmospheric re-entry — object destroyed

Specifications

NORAD ID26463
COSPAR2000-045A
TypeSatellite
OperatorESA
Country / StateI-ESA
ManufacturerASTDF
BusCluster
Mass1,186 kg (550 kg dry)
ProgrammeESA Cluster
CategorySCI
Orbit (VHEO)
Altitude17,240 × 120,715 km
Inclination90.9°

Frequently asked questions

What happened to Cluster FM5 (C1)?

Cluster FM5 (C1) re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 22 Oct 2025, ending a mission that began with its launch in 2000. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.

When did Cluster FM5 (C1) re-enter the atmosphere?

Cluster FM5 (C1) re-entered on 22 Oct 2025, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.

Who operated and built Cluster FM5 (C1)?

Cluster FM5 (C1) was operated by ESA and built by ASTDF (I-ESA).

Launched together

Cluster FM8 (C4)NORAD 26464
Historical record from the Orbital Radar satellite archive. Sources & methodology: data sources. Accessed 2026-09-06.