Cosmos Crash: Soviet Spacecraft's Earthly Return After 53 Years

The Soviet spacecraft Kosmos 482, intended to head towards Venus but stranded in Earth's orbit since 1972, is expected to reenter Earth's atmosphere this weekend. Estimated to fall early Saturday morning, scientists believe its titanium cover may survive reentry, though possibly damaged, landing mainly over uninhabited regions or water.

A vintage Soviet spacecraft, Kosmos 482, originally destined for Venus in 1972, is projected to plunge back into Earth's atmosphere this weekend, precisely early Saturday morning. Despite the fiery reentry, the titanium-covered craft might endure the ordeal, though it could be severely damaged upon impact, according to scientist Marcin Pilinski from the University of Colorado Boulder.

Experts predict the wreckage will likely fall into the ocean or desolate areas, significantly reducing any threat to populated regions. The historical spacecraft, lasting much longer in orbit than initially expected, sees its return due to gravity's persistent pull. Forecasts indicate the spacecraft, lacking functional parachutes or batteries, could hit at a speed of 242 kph if it remains intact during its descent.

Originally part of the Soviet Union's ambitious Venera programme aiming for Venus, Kosmos 482 experienced a malfunction that left it trapped in Earth's orbit. The final piece of this spacecraft will end its journey soon and any surviving remnants will remain under Russia's ownership according to a United Nations treaty.

(With inputs from agencies.)