Mars-3
Re-entered 29 May 1971Mars-3 (NORAD 5252, COSPAR 1971-049A) was a SU satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 29 May 1971, launched on 28 May 1971 on the 4M No. 172 mission. It is catalogued as 4M No. 172. It was operated by IKI / Babakin as part of the 3M programme. The spacecraft was built by NPOL on the Mars bus, with a mass of 3,440 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 Mars-3?
Mars-3 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 29 May 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 Mars-3 re-enter the atmosphere?
Mars-3 re-entered on 29 May 1971, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built Mars-3?
Mars-3 was operated by IKI / Babakin and built by NPOL (SU).