The Pioneering European Satellite ERS-2 Meets Fiery End Over Pacific Ocean
The European ERS-2 satellite, a pioneer in Earth observation, recently met its dramatic end in the atmosphere over the Pacific Ocean. Launched in the 1990s by the European Space Agency, ERS-2 played a crucial role in monitoring floods, measuring temperatures, and studying ice fields. It also introduced a new ability to assess Earth’s protective ozone layer.
The satellite’s fiery plunge was tracked by radars as it burned up over the North Pacific Ocean. Considered one of the “grandfathers of Earth observation in Europe,” ERS-2 laid the foundation for today’s climate monitoring technologies before ceasing operation in 2011.
With the increasing concern over space debris and the risk of collisions in orbit, there is now a push for shorter disposal grace periods for redundant spacecraft. Companies like SpaceX are actively working to bring down redundant satellites to prevent future risks in space.
Advocacy groups and companies are emphasizing the need to remove derelict objects in low Earth orbit to ensure the sustainable use of space. The demise of ERS-2 serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible space disposal practices to protect vital assets in orbit.
