Blackjack Aces-4
Re-entered 30 Jan 2026Blackjack Aces-4 (NORAD 56952, COSPAR 2023-084W) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 30 Jan 2026, launched on 12 Jun 2023 on the Transporter-8 mission. It was operated by DARPA as part of the BJ Aces programme. The spacecraft was built by BLCAN/LMSS on the X-SAT bus, with a mass of 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 Blackjack Aces-4?
Blackjack Aces-4 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 30 Jan 2026, ending a mission that began with its launch in 2023. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did Blackjack Aces-4 re-enter the atmosphere?
Blackjack Aces-4 re-entered on 30 Jan 2026, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built Blackjack Aces-4?
Blackjack Aces-4 was operated by DARPA and built by BLCAN/LMSS (US).