They've changed the aerodynamics in the last 6 months (Off-Topic)

by ZackDark , Not behind you. NO! Don't look., Thursday, November 26, 2015, 13:47 (3067 days ago) @ Monochron

Reentry heating is significantly higher now than it was before you stopped playing, so that probably explains why your rocket built then can't successfully reentry now.

I'd suggest stranding them there and sending a rescue mission. But I'm biased towards orbital rendezvous. Still haven't done a single one right so far, but it's a blast to try. :)