European Space Agency’s ERS-2 Satellite Set to Crash Back to Earth
It’s always exciting when there’s something fiery to observe in the night sky, whether it’s an influx of shooting stars or the possible demise of the International Space Station. Now, there’s a new extraterrestrial object to look out for, as the European Space Agency (ESA) is preparing to crash a satellite the size of a Tesla back to Earth.
The ERS-2 satellite, which has been in orbit above Earth since 1995, is finally reaching the end of its journey. Over the past 29 years, this craft has played a crucial role in studying sea temperatures and wind speeds on Earth, providing valuable data to track changes in our climate. However, the craft was decommissioned back in 2011, and now it is time for its final descent.
According to Space.com, the ERS-2 satellite is predicted to fall back to Earth on Wednesday, February 21. However, predicting the exact time of its re-entry has proven to be quite challenging. The ESA explains that the uncertainty is due to the “influence of unpredictable solar activity, which affects the density of Earth’s atmosphere” and can alter the satellite’s trajectory on its way down.
While it is still too early to determine where exactly the satellite will crash, the ESA assures us that there is no need to worry about any potential damage. The craft has burned up all its onboard fuel and is now at the mercy of gravity. Despite weighing as much as a Tesla Model X, the ESA expects that most of the satellite will burn up upon impact. As it reaches around 50 miles above Earth, the aging satellite will break up into smaller pieces, with only a few fragments predicted to fall into the ocean.
So, instead of fretting about being hit by falling European space junk this week, why not step outside and keep your eyes peeled for a spectacular sight? Witnessing a satellite burning up overhead could be a truly awe-inspiring experience.
