Spacecraft that re-enter from either orbital decay or controlled entry usually break up at altitudes between 84-72 km due to aerodynamic forces causing the allowable structural loads to be exceeded. The nominal breakup altitude for spacecraft is considered to be 78 km.
Spacecraft that re-enter from either orbital decay or controlled entry typically break apart at altitudes between 84-72 km due to aerodynamic forces exceeding the allowable structural loads. The typical breakup altitude for spacecraft is considered to be 78 km.