Vela I-A
Re-entered 1 Jan 1980Vela I-A (NORAD 674, COSPAR 1963-039A) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 1 Jan 1980, launched on 17 Oct 1963 on the Vela 1A mission. It is catalogued as Vela 1A. It was operated by USAF SSD as part of the Vela programme. The spacecraft was built by TRW on the Vela bus, with a mass of 115 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 Vela I-A?
Vela I-A re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 1 Jan 1980, 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 Vela I-A re-enter the atmosphere?
Vela I-A re-entered on 1 Jan 1980, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built Vela I-A?
Vela I-A was operated by USAF SSD and built by TRW (US).