Photon
Re-entered 22 Jan 2025Photon (NORAD 46268, COSPAR 2020-060A) was a NZ satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 22 Jan 2025, launched on 31 Aug 2020 on the Sequoia mission. It was operated by RLABN as part of the Photon programme. The spacecraft was built by RLABN on the Photon bus, with a mass of 20 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 Photon?
Photon re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 22 Jan 2025, ending a mission that began with its launch in 2020. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did Photon re-enter the atmosphere?
Photon re-entered on 22 Jan 2025, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built Photon?
Photon was operated by RLABN and built by RLABN (NZ).