ERS-2, the observational satellite owned by the European Space Agency (ESA), is set to reenter Earth’s atmosphere on Wednesday. After almost 30 years in space, the satellite’s remnants may plummet to the surface of our planet. This uncontrolled event is expected to occur over the Pacific Ocean, with the majority of the satellite likely to burn up upon reentry.
According to the ESA, the remaining debris that survives the journey will fall over an area spanning hundreds of kilometers in length and tens of kilometers in width, posing minimal risk. The largest fragment of the ERS-2 satellite that could potentially reach Earth’s surface is estimated to weigh no more than 52 kilograms.
While the exact location of reentry is uncertain, the ESA has provided a map indicating a general area off the west coast of the United States as the potential impact zone. However, other regions, including Europe (including Poland), eastern Africa, and western Asia, could also be within the path of any potential satellite debris.
Launched in April 1995, ERS-2 was considered a cutting-edge satellite for Earth observation in Europe at the time. Together with its sister model, ERS-1, it collected valuable data on the Earth’s land surfaces, oceans, polar caps, and natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes.
After nearly 16 years of operation, the ESA made the decision to terminate the mission in 2011. The satellite’s altitude was lowered through a series of maneuvers, transitioning it into a passive state.
As ERS-2 approaches the final stages of its journey, scientists and researchers eagerly await its reentry, hoping to capture valuable data and insights before it bids its farewell to the vastness of space.
FAQ:
1. What is ERS-2 and who owns it?
ERS-2 is an observational satellite owned by the European Space Agency (ESA).
2. When will ERS-2 reenter Earth’s atmosphere?
ERS-2 is set to reenter Earth’s atmosphere on Wednesday.
3. Where is ERS-2 expected to reenter?
ERS-2 is expected to reenter over the Pacific Ocean, with potential impact zones including the west coast of the United States, Europe, eastern Africa, and western Asia.
4. What will happen to the satellite upon reentry?
The majority of the satellite is expected to burn up upon reentry, but any debris that survives may fall over an area spanning hundreds of kilometers in length and tens of kilometers in width.
5. How much does the largest potential satellite fragment weigh?
The largest fragment of ERS-2 estimated to potentially reach Earth’s surface weighs no more than 52 kilograms.
Definitions:
– Observational satellite: A satellite that is used to observe and collect data about the Earth’s surface, atmosphere, and other celestial bodies.
– Reentry: The process in which a satellite or spacecraft returns to Earth’s atmosphere from space.
– Debris: Fragments or remnants of a satellite or spacecraft that survive reentry and fall to Earth.
Suggested Related Links:
– ESA: The official website of the European Space Agency.
– Earth Observatory – NASA: Provides information and images related to Earth observation from space.
– NASA: The official website of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
The source of the article is from the blog smartphonemagazine.nl