Soviet Spacecraft Reentry: Kosmos 482 Returns After 53 Years in Orbit
The Soviet spacecraft Kosmos 482, launched in 1972, is reentering Earth’s atmosphere after 53 years. Originally meant for Venus, it malfunctioned and began orbiting Earth. After decades in orbit, experts predict it will reenter Earth’s atmosphere from May 9 to May 11, 2025.
Kosmos 482’s Journey: From Venus to Orbit
Kosmos 482 was designed to land on Venus but a rocket failure kept it in Earth’s orbit. Weighing 500 kilograms, the spacecraft circled Earth for over five decades. Over time, it spiraled downward, and now experts consider it to be on its final death plunge. The spacecraft’s return marks an end to its long journey in space.
When Will Kosmos 482 Reenter?
Kosmos 482 could reenter Earth’s atmosphere anywhere from 52° North to 52° South latitude. This includes parts of Europe, Asia, South America, and Africa. Space expert Marco Langbroek suggests the spacecraft will reenter on May 10, 2025, traveling at about 150 mph. Despite the risk, he notes that the chance of hitting a populated area is extremely low.
Will Kosmos 482 Survive Reentry?
Kosmos 482’s descent module has a titanium heat shield designed to withstand Venus’s harsh atmosphere. Experts believe it can survive reentry and may even crash intact. If this happens, it will likely create a hazard for the area where it lands. If the heat shield fails, the spacecraft will likely burn up before reaching Earth’s surface.
What Happens If Kosmos 482 Hits Earth?
Should Kosmos 482 survive reentry and land on Earth, the risk is minimal. Space debris rarely harms people, as most objects burn up during reentry. In past incidents, objects like a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and satellites have fallen in remote areas, causing little to no damage. Experts expect the spacecraft to land in an ocean or remote area.
The Growing Risk of Space Debris
As more spacecraft are launched, the risk of space debris hitting aircraft is increasing. However, experts say the chance remains low. Still, as space exploration advances, scientists predict the risk to air traffic will grow, albeit gradually.
Conclusion: Kosmos 482’s Final Chapter
Kosmos 482’s return marks the end of a chapter in Soviet space exploration. While experts downplay the risks, this event highlights the ongoing challenge of managing space debris. It’s a reminder of how space exploration leaves a lasting mark, even after decades.
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