Overview

• Kosmos 482, a Soviet Venus probe launched in 1972, failed to leave Earth's orbit and has remained in a decaying trajectory for over five decades.
• The descent capsule, built to survive Venus's harsh atmosphere, is predicted to reenter Earth's atmosphere most likely between May 10 and May 12, according to tracking experts.
• The U.S. Space Force forecasts reentry on May 12, with the impact zone spanning between 52° North and 52° South latitude, covering a wide swath of Earth.
• Experts assess the robust titanium shell may survive reentry, but the odds of causing harm are extremely low due to Earth's vast uninhabited areas and oceans.
• Astrophotography has captured potential remnants, including what may be the probe's parachute, offering insights into its condition after 53 years in orbit.