Soviet Spacecraft to Re-enter Earth’s Atmosphere: Kosmos 482’s Uncontrolled Return
A Soviet spacecraft launched in the 1970s for a mission to Venus is expected to make an uncontrolled return to Earth, according to space debris-tracking experts.
What is Kosmos 482?
Kosmos 482, known as the "Venus exploration" program, was launched on March 31, 1972. Due to a rocket malfunction, it failed to leave Earth’s orbit and remained stuck in a slowly decaying orbit for over 50 years.
Where will Kosmos 482 Re-enter?
Experts predict the spacecraft could re-enter anywhere between 51.7° north and south latitude, including major cities like London and Edmonton. However, since most of the Earth is covered by ocean, it’s likely to end up in the Pacific Ocean.
Why it’s Called Kosmos?
Starting in 1962, the Soviet Union used the name "Kosmos" for any spacecraft that stayed in Earth orbit, even if it wasn’t the original plan. Many of these missions were planetary probes that failed to leave orbit.
Will it Survive Re-entry?
Despite its robust design for Venus’s carbon dioxide-rich atmosphere, the spacecraft’s survival through atmospheric re-entry raises apprehension. The lander’s parachute system has been affected by extended orbital exposure, and heat shield failure would lead to disintegration during descent.
What’s Next?
Space agencies are tracking Kosmos 482 as it continues its slow descent. It’s still too early to predict where it will land or if it will burn up in the atmosphere. Many pieces of space junk end up in the Pacific Ocean, often called the "spacecraft cemetery."
For now, space trackers will keep watching until it finally comes down — wherever that may be.
Reference : https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/rest-of-world/soviet-spacecraft-stuck-in-orbit-for-53-years-may-finally-fall-back-to-earth-next-week-what-is-kosmos-482-where-will-it-land/articleshow/120816480.cms
