Pioneer D
Re-entered 10 Nov 1968Pioneer D (NORAD 3533, COSPAR 1968-100A) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 10 Nov 1968, launched on 8 Nov 1968 on the Pioneer D mission. It was operated by ARC as part of the Solar Pioneer programme. The spacecraft was built by TRW on the Solar Pioneer bus, with a mass of 67 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 Pioneer D?
Pioneer D re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 10 Nov 1968, ending a mission that began with its launch in 1968. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did Pioneer D re-enter the atmosphere?
Pioneer D re-entered on 10 Nov 1968, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built Pioneer D?
Pioneer D was operated by ARC and built by TRW (US).