Nearly 30 years after its launch, the European Space Agency (ESA) closely monitors the descent of the uncontrolled satellite ERS-2 as it hurtles towards Earth’s atmosphere
The satellite, launched in 1995, is expected to break up upon reentry, with most of its fragments burning up. Despite the anticipation surrounding this event, the exact time and location of the reentry remain uncertain due to the unpredictable nature of solar activity.
When will the satellite reenter Earth?
According to the latest forecast released by the ESA on Monday, the satellite is thought to reenter Earth’s atmosphere at approximately 11:14 am on Wednesday. However, a window of uncertainty exists up to 15 hours before or after the predicted time, due to solar variability.
In preparation for this event, the ESA has been monitoring ERS-2 closely and recently released photos depicting its descent towards the atmosphere. These images, captured between January 14th and February 3rd, provide a visual insight into the satellite’s journey as it approaches its inevitable reentry.
What has happened since the original launch?
Since its launch, ERS-2 has been a vital asset for Earth observation, providing valuable data on various aspects of the planet’s environment.
With its sophisticated technology, the satellite has contributed to our understanding of atmospheric chemistry, ocean behaviour, and the impact of human activity on the environment.
The satellite is not a significant risk
As ERS-2 approaches its final descent, its altitude has decreased significantly, from over 300 to around 200km. The satellite is currently falling at more than 10km per day, with its descent accelerating rapidly.
Once it reaches an altitude of approximately 80km, the satellite will begin to break apart, ultimately disintegrating and burning up in the Earth’s atmosphere.
While some fragments may survive the reentry process, the ESA assures that they are not expected to pose any significant risk, as they are likely to fall into the ocean rather than populated areas.
The ESA decided to deorbit ERS-2 after 16 years of operation. By utilising the remaining fuel onboard, the satellite’s altitude was lowered from 785km to 573km, significantly reducing the risk of collisions with other objects in space. This deliberate deorbiting process has shortened the satellite’s time in orbit after its mission concluded from over 100 years to less than 15 years.
As ERS-2 approaches its anticipated reentry into Earth’s atmosphere, the ESA continues to monitor its descent and provide updates on the situation.
While uncertainties remain regarding the exact timing and location of the reentry, the agency assures the public that the risks associated with satellite reentries are minimal.
