Todd and Joe,
Given that BY70-1 is a 2U cubesat measuring 10x10x20cm and weighing only a few kilograms (details here: https://amsat-uk.org/2016/12/27/by70-1-fm-transponder-satellite/), it will completely burn up upon reentry. When and where it will burn up, of course, depends on the orbital dynamics, atmospheric conditions (the sun's radiation affects the height of the top of the atmosphere), and the satellite cross-section. The eventual demise may be over one of the oceans or a cloudy region, with no one present or able to witness it.
Since BY70-1 is reported to have 3-axis stabilization, we may be able to enjoy its use right up to its fiery end. I have been trying to work BY70-1 as much as my other responsibilities will allow. I encourage all to do the same.
73,
Mac / AE5PH
On 01/29/2017 10:07 AM, Todd Deckard wrote:
Greetings Joe!
space-track.org lists the decay epoch as 2017-02-22 0:00:00 -- note this is not strictly the re-entry time but perhaps gives us an approximate window?
I do not understand the material very well. It appears for large objects they will calculate a time-and-impact prediction as things become more certain but perhaps poor Bayi-Kepu-Weixing-1 may not rate as it doesn't pose a hazard.
I don't even know if it would be visible during re-entry given the speed?
When will we have a closer idea of when it may re-enter?
It would be neat to try to catch it on video.
Joe WB9SBD
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