Viking Orbiter 1
Re-entered 21 Aug 1975Viking Orbiter 1 (NORAD 8108, COSPAR 1975-075A) was a US satellite that re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 21 Aug 1975, launched on 20 Aug 1975 on the Viking Orbiter 1 mission. It was operated by JPL as part of the Viking programme. The spacecraft was built by JPL on the Viking Orbiter bus, with a mass of 2,328 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 Viking Orbiter 1?
Viking Orbiter 1 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on 21 Aug 1975, ending a mission that began with its launch in 1975. Objects in low orbits are gradually slowed by atmospheric drag until they fall back and burn up on re-entry.
When did Viking Orbiter 1 re-enter the atmosphere?
Viking Orbiter 1 re-entered on 21 Aug 1975, according to Orbital Radar's historical catalogue records.
Who operated and built Viking Orbiter 1?
Viking Orbiter 1 was operated by JPL and built by JPL (US).