Photon
Re-entered 14 Mar 2023Photon (NORAD 47972, COSPAR 2021-023H) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 14 Mar 2023, launched on 22 Mar 2021 on the Global-5/Pathstone mission. It was operated by RLABLB 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 14 Mar 2023, ending a mission that began with its launch in 2021. 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 14 Mar 2023, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built Photon?
Photon was operated by RLABLB and built by RLABN (US).