Kepler-16
Re-entered 23 Sep 2025Kepler-16 (NORAD 51057, COSPAR 2022-002CB) was a CA satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 23 Sep 2025, launched on 13 Jan 2022 on the Transporter-3 mission. It was operated by KEPLER as part of the Kepler programme. The spacecraft was built by KEPLER/UTIAS on the Cubesat 6U bus, with a mass of 15 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 Kepler-16?
Kepler-16 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 23 Sep 2025, ending a mission that began with its launch in 2022. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did Kepler-16 re-enter the atmosphere?
Kepler-16 re-entered on 23 Sep 2025, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built Kepler-16?
Kepler-16 was operated by KEPLER and built by KEPLER/UTIAS (CA).