A retired NASA spacecraft weighing around 600 kilograms, known as Van Allen Probe A, has re-entered Earth’s atmosphere after spending nearly 14 years studying the planet’s radiation belts. The satellite was originally launched in 2012 to investigate high-energy particles trapped by Earth’s magnetic field, helping scientists better understand space weather and its effects on satellites, astronauts, and communication systems. After its mission ended in 2019, the spacecraft remained in orbit until atmospheric drag gradually pulled it back toward Earth.
Experts say most of the satellite burned up due to extreme heat and friction during its fiery atmospheric reentry, with only a small chance of fragments reaching the ground. Scientists estimate the risk of injury from falling debris at roughly 1 in 4,200, meaning the chances of harm are extremely low. The event highlights both the natural end of aging satellites and the growing challenge of managing space debris as more objects are launched into orbit around Earth.
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