Pioneer-03
Re-entered 14 May 2025Pioneer-03 (NORAD 63224, COSPAR 2025-052Q) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 14 May 2025, launched on 15 Mar 2025 on the Transporter-13 mission. It was operated by VARDA as part of the Photon programme. The spacecraft was built by RLABLB on the RL Pioneer bus, with a mass of 275 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 Pioneer-03?
Pioneer-03 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 14 May 2025, ending a mission that began with its launch in 2025. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did Pioneer-03 re-enter the atmosphere?
Pioneer-03 re-entered on 14 May 2025, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built Pioneer-03?
Pioneer-03 was operated by VARDA and built by RLABLB (US).