Return of the ERS-2 satellite to Earth: Threat of space debris? 
Marc Hay 02/18/2024 12:00 5 min
The countdown begins : the European satellite ERS-2, a veteran of Earth observation, is preparing for an uncontrolled re-entry into the atmosphere around February 20, 2024.
Although this return has been long planned, it is a cause for growing concern As for possible space debris that could reach the surface of our planet.
The atmospheric re-entry of our satellite ERS-2 is currently expected on February 21st. For more information on the how and why, check out this infographic:
https://t.co/ySN0ZadfoHArticle from February 6 https://t.co/iQh5Zdyszj#ERS2reentry #SpaceSafety pic.twitter.com/J7cJmuGzBX
— ESA France (@ESA_fr) February 15, 2024
Will the ERS-2 satellite completely disintegrate upon entering the atmosphere? What is the real threat of space debris to Earth? Answers in this article.
Atmospheric re-entry is imminent!
The ERS-2 satellite launched in 1995 represents one of the first generations of earth observation satellites, This marks an important milestone in European space research.
Its imminent return to our planet, scheduled for around February 20, sparks both fascination and concern.
While most of its mass is expected to burn up upon re-entry into the atmosphere, Fragments weighing 100 to 200 kilograms could reach the ground, although the risk to the population remains minimal.
This atmospheric re-entry is being closely monitored by the European Space Agency (ESA). as well as from international partners to track progress and assess possible risks.
Space debris is a real problem
This uncontrolled re-entry into the atmosphere highlights a much larger problem: that of space debris.
With more than 2,500 objects entering the atmosphere in 2023, With a total mass of more than 300 tons, the Earth orbits have become Highways full of broken satellites, debris and launch vehicles. While some of these objects are removed in a controlled manner, most follow an unpredictable trajectory and pose a potential threat to active spaceflight equipment and the safety of astronauts.
Return of the ERS-2 satellite to Earth: fragments weighing 100 to 200 kilograms could reach Earth!
ESA is sounding the alarm about this problem, Emphasizing the need to take measures to reduce the proliferation of space debris and ensure safety in space.
ESA's Space Security Efforts
Faced with this growing threat, ESA is intensifying its efforts to ensure security in space.
With the launch of the space security program with an investment of 1.2 billion euros The agency's goal is to develop technologies and strategies to monitor, prevent and clean up space debris.
Current initiatives include: the development of end-of-life deorbiting techniques for satellites and the promotion of best practices to limit the production of debris during satellite construction and operation.
ESA also works with other space agencies and international organizations Develop standards and regulations to maintain the integrity of the space environment.
Kessler syndrome
The ESA warns against this “Kessler syndrome” a massive scenario in which collisions in orbit multiply exponentially, A vicious circle of destruction and the creation of new debris is created.
This scenario, if it occurred, could render certain Earth orbits unusable, This puts space activities and essential services such as communications, navigation and Earth observation at risk.
As the ERS-2 satellite prepares to complete its journey into space, its return to Earth raises crucial questions about space debris management and space security. You can follow the return of the ERS-2 satellite on the ESA website.
Item reference:
Uncontrolled atmospheric re-entry of a European Earth observation satellite – Sciences et Avenir