Large European space satellite at risk of falling to earth

21 February could be the day when a European satellite that has been in operation since 1995 risks falling to Earth.

The satellite, called European Remote Sensing 2, was launched almost three decades ago. Since then, it has played a key role in collecting data about the Earth. In recent years, operators have lowered its orbit to prepare it for a controlled destruction. However, it has turned out that this return will be uncontrolled.

The main problem is that it is breaking up into fragments, and the exact location of its fall to earth is unknown. Although most of the fragments are likely to be lost in the ocean, some of them may reach the earth's surface.

It is worth noting that the risk to the public is very low. Even if fragments of the satellite reach the Earth, they are not toxic, and the likelihood of their impact on any person is low.

The return of the satellite may cause some anxiety, but the public can rest assured: scientists and operators of international space missions are monitoring the situation and are ready to act in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

Source:Ars Technica