Transit VA-3
Re-entered 3 Aug 1990Transit VA-3 (NORAD 594, COSPAR 1963-022A) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 3 Aug 1990, launched on 16 Jun 1963 on the Transit VA-3 mission. It was operated by BUWEPS as part of the Transit 5 programme. The spacecraft was built by APL on the Transit 5 bus, with a mass of 59 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 Transit VA-3?
Transit VA-3 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 3 Aug 1990, ending a mission that began with its launch in 1963. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did Transit VA-3 re-enter the atmosphere?
Transit VA-3 re-entered on 3 Aug 1990, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built Transit VA-3?
Transit VA-3 was operated by BUWEPS and built by APL (US).