AD-A
Re-entered 10 May 1981AD-A (NORAD 714, COSPAR 1963-053A) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 10 May 1981, launched on 19 Dec 1963 on the AD-A mission. It was operated by LARCN as part of the Explorer AD programme. The spacecraft was built by SCHJ on the 12' Sphere bus, with a mass of 8 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 AD-A?
AD-A re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 10 May 1981, 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 AD-A re-enter the atmosphere?
AD-A re-entered on 10 May 1981, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built AD-A?
AD-A was operated by LARCN and built by SCHJ (US).