FIREBIRD U4
Re-entered 2 Aug 2023FIREBIRD U4 (NORAD 40378, COSPAR 2015-003C) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 2 Aug 2023, launched on 31 Jan 2015 on the SMAP mission. It was operated by MSU / UNH as part of the MSU programme. The spacecraft was built by MSU/UNH on the Cubesat 1.5U bus, with a mass of 2 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 FIREBIRD U4?
FIREBIRD U4 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 2 Aug 2023, ending a mission that began with its launch in 2015. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did FIREBIRD U4 re-enter the atmosphere?
FIREBIRD U4 re-entered on 2 Aug 2023, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built FIREBIRD U4?
FIREBIRD U4 was operated by MSU / UNH and built by MSU/UNH (US).