- ESA’s 2.5 tonne ERS-2 satellite launched in 1995 is now out of control and could crash into Earth’s atmosphere on February 21.
- The satellite completed more than 82,000 orbits and ended its mission in 2011, with all systems switched off and fuel used for manoeuvres to lower its altitude.
- Innovations were made to address on-board system failures and the satellite’s mission was redefined as “real-time” after data storage system failure in 2003.
In a shocking turn of events, the European Space Agency (ESA) has announced that its ERS-2 satellite will be crashing back to Earth today after losing control. This news has sparked concerns among experts and the general public about the potential impact of the satellite’s re-entry.
The ERS-2 satellite, which was launched in 1995, has been instrumental in gathering data on Earth’s environment and climate. However, ESA lost communication with the satellite earlier this year, and subsequent attempts to regain control have been unsuccessful.
According to the ESA, the satellite is expected to re-enter the Earth’s atmosphere today, but the exact time and location of the crash are still uncertain. The agency has assured that the risk to human life is minimal, as the satellite is expected to burn up upon re-entry. However, there is still a small chance that debris from the satellite could reach the Earth’s surface.
The potential for debris reaching the ground has raised concerns about the safety of the satellite’s re-entry. ESA has advised the public to stay away from any debris they may come across and report it to local authorities.
The loss of control over the ERS-2 satellite serves as a reminder of the challenges and risks associated with space exploration and satellite operations. ESA is continuing to monitor the situation and will provide updates on the satellite’s re-entry as more information becomes available.
This incident is a sobering reminder of the need for rigorous standards in space operations and the responsible management of space debris. It also highlights the importance of global cooperation in addressing the challenges posed by space activities.
As the world watches and waits for the ERS-2 satellite to re-enter the Earth’s atmosphere, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of individuals and the protection of the environment. ESA’s efforts to track and manage the satellite’s re-entry are ongoing, and more information will be shared as the situation unfolds.