R3D2
Re-entered 23 May 2021R3D2 (NORAD 44073, COSPAR 2019-016A) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 23 May 2021, launched on 28 Mar 2019 on the R3D2 mission. It was operated by DARPA2 as part of the DARPA Tech programme. The spacecraft was built by NGAS/BLCAN on the Flexbus bus, with a mass of 160 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 R3D2?
R3D2 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 23 May 2021, ending a mission that began with its launch in 2019. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did R3D2 re-enter the atmosphere?
R3D2 re-entered on 23 May 2021, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built R3D2?
R3D2 was operated by DARPA2 and built by NGAS/BLCAN (US).