Vela 5A
Re-entered 1 Jul 1984Vela 5A (NORAD 3954, COSPAR 1969-046D) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 1 Jul 1984, launched on 23 May 1969 on the ERS 29 mission. It was operated by SAMSO as part of the Vela programme. The spacecraft was built by TRW on the Vela bus, with a mass of 250 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 Vela 5A?
Vela 5A re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 1 Jul 1984, ending a mission that began with its launch in 1969. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did Vela 5A re-enter the atmosphere?
Vela 5A re-entered on 1 Jul 1984, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built Vela 5A?
Vela 5A was operated by SAMSO and built by TRW (US).