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🛰️ SATELLITE · HISTORICAL RECORD

Gemini SC1

Re-entered 12 Apr 1964

Gemini SC1 (NORAD 782, COSPAR 1964-018A) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 12 Apr 1964, launched on 8 Apr 1964 on the Gemini SC1 mission. It was operated by MSC as part of the Gemini programme. The spacecraft was built by MCDA on the Gemini bus, with a mass of 2,188 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.

1964
launched
1964
re-entered
0
years on orbit
2,188
kg mass

Lifecycle

Launched8 Apr 1964 · on the Gemini SC1 mission
Operational8 Apr 1964 · entered service
Retired8 Apr 1964 · end of operational service
Re-entered12 Apr 1964 · atmospheric re-entry — object destroyed

Specifications

NORAD ID782
COSPAR1964-018A
TypeSatellite
OperatorMSC
Country / StateUS
ManufacturerMCDA
BusGemini
Mass2,188 kg
ProgrammeGemini
CategorySS
OrbitLEO (LLEO/I)
Altitude155 × 272 km
Inclination32.6°

Frequently asked questions

What happened to Gemini SC1?

Gemini SC1 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 12 Apr 1964, ending a mission that began with its launch in 1964. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.

When did Gemini SC1 re-enter the atmosphere?

Gemini SC1 re-entered on 12 Apr 1964, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.

Who operated and built Gemini SC1?

Gemini SC1 was operated by MSC and built by MCDA (US).

Historical record from the Orbital Radar satellite archive. Sources & methodology: data sources. Accessed 2026-09-06.