Tacsat 3
Re-entered 30 Apr 2012Tacsat 3 (NORAD 35001, COSPAR 2009-028A) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 30 Apr 2012, launched on 19 May 2009 on the Tacsat 3 mission. It was operated by AFRL as part of the ORS Tacsat programme. The spacecraft was built by ATKS on the ATK-A200 bus, with a mass of 400 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 Tacsat 3?
Tacsat 3 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 30 Apr 2012, ending a mission that began with its launch in 2009. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did Tacsat 3 re-enter the atmosphere?
Tacsat 3 re-entered on 30 Apr 2012, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built Tacsat 3?
Tacsat 3 was operated by AFRL and built by ATKS (US).