European Space Agency Successfully Executes Assisted Reentry of Aeolus Satellite, Improving Satellite Decommissioning Safety
The European Space Agency (ESA) recently made a significant breakthrough in satellite decommissioning by successfully executing an assisted reentry maneuver on its Aeolus satellite. Released photos showcased the satellite’s descent into Earth’s atmosphere, where it burned up at an astonishing speed of 16,700 mph.
Launched in 2018, the Aeolus satellite was a groundbreaking mission equipped with powerful laser technology capable of observing wind patterns on a global scale. Over its 5-year operation, Aeolus contributed to significantly improving weather forecasts and climate models, as confirmed by the ESA. However, the satellite reached the end of its mission in July, transitioning from a cutting-edge scientific instrument to space debris.
Traditionally, decommissioned satellites fall out of orbit and burn up in Earth’s atmosphere. With Aeolus, the ESA decided to test an innovative approach known as “assisted reentry.” This maneuver involved a series of deorbits, allowing the satellite to gradually approach Earth while remaining in orbit. By doing so, the ESA could accurately map the satellite’s reentry path and minimize the risk of unburned debris falling near populated areas.
Ultimately, it was determined that Aeolus would reenter and burn up over Antarctica, far away from any inhabited regions. Approximately 80% of the satellite disintegrated upon reentry, with only 20% surviving. According to Space.com, this assisted reentry reduced the already low risk of surviving fragments landing near populated areas by an additional 150 times.
In addition to enhancing safety, the assisted reentry approach also minimized the period during which Aeolus remained uncontrolled in orbit. This helped mitigate the risk of collision with other satellites in the congested space environment, commonly referred to as the “space highway.”
The need for safer satellite decommissioning methods has become increasingly critical in recent years. The number of active satellites in orbit has risen drastically, reaching over 6,000 in 2022 compared to just under 1,000 in 2010. This surge in satellite traffic poses a greater risk of collisions and the potential for space debris to fall to Earth’s surface.
While no severe harm has been caused by space debris so far, the ESA emphasizes that the risks are real and must be addressed as satellite numbers continue to grow. As defunct satellites continue to orbit without guidance, there is an increased possibility of debris raining down on inhabited areas.
Recognizing these concerns, the ESA has pledged to prioritize the issue of space debris and spacecraft safety. The Aeolus assisted reentry mission serves as a notable step toward making satellite reentries safer and more sustainable. Aeolus Mission Manager Tommaso Parrinello highlighted the significance of this achievement, stating, “With Aeolus, in a remarkable example of sustainable spaceflight and responsible operations, we stayed with the mission for as long as we could, guiding its return as much as it was possible to do.”
The successful assisted reentry of Aeolus demonstrates the ESA’s commitment to enhancing satellite decommissioning safety. With the growing risks posed by space debris, such efforts are crucial in safeguarding both our space assets and our planet.