TD-1A
Re-entered 9 Jan 1980TD-1A (NORAD 5879, COSPAR 1972-014A) was a I-ESRO satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 9 Jan 1980, launched on 12 Mar 1972 on the TD-1A mission. It was operated by ESRO as part of the TD-1A programme. The spacecraft was built by MATT on the TD-1 bus, with a mass of 460 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 TD-1A?
TD-1A re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 9 Jan 1980, ending a mission that began with its launch in 1972. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did TD-1A re-enter the atmosphere?
TD-1A re-entered on 9 Jan 1980, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built TD-1A?
TD-1A was operated by ESRO and built by MATT (I-ESRO).