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Soviet Spacecraft Kosmos 482 on Collision Course with Earth

5/6/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Soviet spacecraft Kosmos 482, launched in 1972, is on a collision course with Earth, expected to reenter our atmosphere between May 9 and May 13. Weighing 1,091 pounds, it has a chance of surviving the fiery descent, but the risk of it striking populated areas remains low as it travels across vast stretches of land and ocean.

History

Historical Context

The impending reentry of Kosmos 482, a Soviet spacecraft, echoes past incidents like Kosmos 954 in 1978, which scattered radioactive debris over Canada. Such uncontrolled reentries raise safety concerns, prompting international vigilance. Historically, the Soviet space program faced scrutiny for its nuclear-powered satellites, highlighting ongoing debates about space safety and environmental risks associated with space technology.

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Story summary

The Soviet spacecraft Kosmos 482, launched in 1972, is on a collision course with Earth, expected to reenter our atmosphere between May 9 and May 13. Weighing 1,091 pounds, it has a chance of surviving the fiery descent, but the risk of it striking populated areas remains low as it travels across vast stretches of land and ocean.

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