An old Earth-observing satellite, the European Remote Sensing 2 (ERS-2), fell out of orbit on Wednesday and harmlessly broke apart over the Pacific Ocean. The 5,000-pound (2,300-kilogram) spacecraft reentered Earth's atmosphere halfway between Hawaii and Alaska, with no reports of damage or injuries.
Launched in 1995, ERS-2 was retired in 2011 after serving its mission. Flight controllers took measures to lower its orbit to prevent collisions with other satellites, depleting all its fuel. The satellite's natural orbital decay eventually led to its reentry into the atmosphere, which was uncontrolled and therefore its precise landing location could not be predicted.
The European Space Agency (ESA) acknowledged the end of ERS-2's mission, stating that while the satellite is gone, its legacy of valuable data continues to contribute to scientific advancements. ERS-2's predecessor, ERS-1, which ceased operations many years ago, remains in orbit several hundred miles above Earth.
This event highlights the controlled retirement process of satellites and the importance of managing space debris to ensure the safety of active spacecraft in orbit. The ESA's monitoring and response to ERS-2's reentry demonstrate the responsible practices followed in the space industry to mitigate risks associated with aging satellites.
Despite the conclusion of ERS-2's operational life, its contributions to Earth observation and scientific research will endure through the data it has provided over the years. The satellite's impact on understanding our planet's environment and climate underscores the significance of space missions in advancing our knowledge of Earth.
