After 53 Years, a Failed Soviet Venus Spacecraft Is Crashing Back to Earth
Kosmos 482, a failed Soviet Venus probe, is slated for an uncontrolled reentry into Earth’s atmosphere after 53 years of orbiting. This spacecraft, which was initially launched to explore Venus, failed shortly after launch due to an engine malfunction and has been floating around the Earth since then. It’s expected to crash back at any moment, with predictions pointing towards mid-May.
Key Points
- Kosmos 482 launched on 31st March 1972 but could not reach its target, Venus, and instead ended up in a prolonged elliptical Earth orbit.
- The spacecraft consists of a lander probe and carrier bus weighing over 1,000 pounds (495 kilograms).
- Current estimates suggest it may reenter the atmosphere around 10th May, though exact timing is still uncertain.
- There are minimal risks associated with its return, similar to a meteorite impact.
- Interestingly, the spacecraft may survive reentry due to its design for harsh atmospheric conditions.
Why should I read this?
If you’re remotely interested in space exploration or the debris left by man-made missions, this article is a must-read! It’s a fascinating tale of a spacecraft that still has its say after all these years. Plus, you’ll be ahead of the curve in discussions about space junk and the intriguing history of the Soviet space program. Trust us, you don’t want to miss this bite-sized piece of cosmic history!