The Kosmos 482 capsule, a Soviet spacecraft made for the harsh conditions of Venus, is set to descend back to Earth within the next week after failing to launch. With its robust build, including a heat shield and density suited for extreme environments, experts believe it is likely to survive re-entry without disintegrating. Although accidental impacts on people or property are unlikely, there is a possibility of a dramatic fireball upon entry. Observers remain vigilant regarding its timing and trajectory as it approaches Earth.
The odds are very, very high that it will fall harmlessly to Earth, but there is that small percentage and so we certainly want to be alert.
Kosmos 482 was the last of a series of probes the Soviet Union launched to Venus in the 1960s and 70s.
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