Overview

• Kosmos 482, launched in 1972 as part of the Soviet Venera program, failed to leave Earth's orbit due to a rocket malfunction and has been circling the planet ever since.
• Experts, including Marco Langbroek, predict the spacecraft will re-enter Earth's atmosphere around May 10, 2025, with a margin of ±57 hours.
• The probe's titanium heat shield, designed for Venus's dense atmosphere, may allow it to survive re-entry and reach the Earth's surface intact.
• The potential impact zone spans latitudes between 52°N and 52°S, covering parts of Europe, Africa, and the Americas, though an ocean landing is considered most likely.
• Weighing approximately 500 kilograms, the spacecraft poses minimal risk as it contains no radioactive materials, with any danger limited to the immediate impact area.