Gone as Soviet spacecraft, back as Russian debris: Kosmos 482 to hit Earth Saturday
Friday, 9 May 2025 () A Soviet spacecraft, Kosmos 482, launched in 1972, is predicted to re-enter Earth's atmosphere soon. Originally intended for Venus, a rocket failure left it orbiting Earth. While most of the 500-kilogram titanium craft will likely burn up, some parts could survive. Scientists anticipate it will fall over an ocean or uninhabited area, posing minimal risk to populated regions.
The Soviet Union launched over a dozen probes to Venus—most successfully. But one never made it past Earth’s orbit and has, in fact, stayed there since 1972.... Upworthy