FreeLists / az-observing / [AZ-Observing] Re: Apollo 12 upper stage returns?

[Paul Dickson <dickson@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

On Wed, 11 Sep 2002 19:48:42 -0700 (MST), Brian Skiff forwarded:

> Newly Discovered Object Could be a Leftover Apollo Rocket Stage
> Paul Chodas
> Near-Earth Object Program Office
> September 11, 2002
> 
> An analysis of the orbital motion of the newly discovered
> object J002E3 indicates that it could be a leftover Saturn V
> third stage from one of the Apollo missions, most likely
> the Apollo 12 mission, launched on November 14, 1969.

Here's an update about J002E3:

  http://science.nasa.gov/headlines/y2002/20sep_mysteryobject.htm

Spectra from the object matches paint used during the Apollo missions.

"J002E3 will leave Earth [orbit] again in June 2003 to resume its orbit
around the Sun."  Better take a peek now if you have the equipment.

        -Paul

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