Contour
Re-entered 15 Aug 2002Contour (NORAD 27457, COSPAR 2002-034A) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 15 Aug 2002, launched on 3 Jul 2002 on the Contour mission. It was operated by NASA / APL as part of the Discovery programme. The spacecraft was built by APL on the Contour bus, with a mass of 435 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 Contour?
Contour re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 15 Aug 2002, ending a mission that began with its launch in 2002. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did Contour re-enter the atmosphere?
Contour re-entered on 15 Aug 2002, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built Contour?
Contour was operated by NASA / APL and built by APL (US).