Soviet-era spacecraft likely to crash back to Earth
Summary
A part of the Soviet-era spacecraft Kosmos 482 is expected to enter Earth's atmosphere around May 10, 2023, after over 50 years in orbit. Experts believe part of the spacecraft, built to withstand Venus's harsh conditions, might survive the re-entry, but the risk to people is low since most of Earth's surface is water.Key Facts
- Kosmos 482 was launched in 1972 to explore Venus but stayed in Earth's orbit.
- The spacecraft broke into four pieces; one is expected to re-enter Earth's atmosphere.
- The re-entry is predicted around May 10, 2023.
- It's made to endure Venus's harsh environment, so it might survive re-entry.
- Exact landing location is unknown but could be anywhere between 51.7° north and south latitude.
- The chance of it harming people is low because 70% of Earth is ocean.
- Uncontrolled re-entries of space debris are common and typically burn up in the atmosphere.
- Future spacecraft should be designed for safe, controlled re-entry to prevent risks.
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