AVL-802 Rigid Sphere
Re-entered 1 Sep 1981AVL-802 Rigid Sphere (NORAD 5410, COSPAR 1971-067P) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 1 Sep 1981, launched on 7 Aug 1971 on the OAR-901 mission. It was operated by SAMSO / AFAL as part of the OV1 A programme. The spacecraft was built by AFAL/GOYR? on the AVL-802 bus, with a mass of 10 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 AVL-802 Rigid Sphere?
AVL-802 Rigid Sphere re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 1 Sep 1981, 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 AVL-802 Rigid Sphere re-enter the atmosphere?
AVL-802 Rigid Sphere re-entered on 1 Sep 1981, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built AVL-802 Rigid Sphere?
AVL-802 Rigid Sphere was operated by SAMSO / AFAL and built by AFAL/GOYR? (US).