POPPY 2 Alfa
Re-entered 1 Aug 1963POPPY 2 Alfa (NORAD 599, COSPAR 1963-021C) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 1 Aug 1963, launched on 15 Jun 1963 on the SURCAL mission. It was operated by NRO / NRL as part of the POPPY programme. The spacecraft was built by NRL on the NRL 24" bus, with a mass of 38 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 POPPY 2 Alfa?
POPPY 2 Alfa re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 1 Aug 1963, 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 POPPY 2 Alfa re-enter the atmosphere?
POPPY 2 Alfa re-entered on 1 Aug 1963, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built POPPY 2 Alfa?
POPPY 2 Alfa was operated by NRO / NRL and built by NRL (US).