Moonlighter
Re-entered 10 Feb 2024Moonlighter (NORAD 57316, COSPAR 1998-067VU) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 10 Feb 2024, launched on 5 Jun 2023 on the 77KM No. 17501 mission. It was operated by AERO / SFSSC as part of the Aerocube programme. The spacecraft was built by AERO on the Cubesat 3U bus, with a mass of 4 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 Moonlighter?
Moonlighter re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 10 Feb 2024, 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 Moonlighter re-enter the atmosphere?
Moonlighter re-entered on 10 Feb 2024, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built Moonlighter?
Moonlighter was operated by AERO / SFSSC and built by AERO (US).