RainCube
Re-entered 23 Dec 2020RainCube (NORAD 43548, COSPAR 1998-067NW) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 23 Dec 2020, launched on 21 May 2018 on the 77KM No. 17501 mission. It was operated by JPL as part of the JPL Cube programme. The spacecraft was built by JPL/TYVAK on the Cubesat 6U bus, with a mass of 12 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 RainCube?
RainCube re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 23 Dec 2020, ending a mission that began with its launch in 2018. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did RainCube re-enter the atmosphere?
RainCube re-entered on 23 Dec 2020, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built RainCube?
RainCube was operated by JPL and built by JPL/TYVAK (US).