W-5
Re-entered 29 Jan 2026W-5 (NORAD 66747, COSPAR 2025-276CK) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 29 Jan 2026, launched on 28 Nov 2025 on the Transporter-15 mission. It is catalogued as W-Series 5. It was operated by Varda Space as part of the Varda programme. The spacecraft was built by VARDA on the VW bus, with a mass of 250 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 W-5?
W-5 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 29 Jan 2026, 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 W-5 re-enter the atmosphere?
W-5 re-entered on 29 Jan 2026, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built W-5?
W-5 was operated by Varda Space and built by VARDA (US).