Gektor No. 18L
Re-entered 2 Feb 1971Gektor No. 18L (NORAD 4872, COSPAR 1971-004A) was a SU satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 2 Feb 1971, launched on 21 Jan 1971 on the Zenit-2M mission. It was operated by GUKOSR as part of the Zenit-2M programme. The spacecraft was built by TSKBE3 on the Zenit-2M bus, with a mass of 2,200 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 Gektor No. 18L?
Gektor No. 18L re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 2 Feb 1971, ending a mission that began with its launch in 1971. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did Gektor No. 18L re-enter the atmosphere?
Gektor No. 18L re-entered on 2 Feb 1971, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built Gektor No. 18L?
Gektor No. 18L was operated by GUKOSR and built by TSKBE3 (SU).