Europe's Earth-exploring satellite 'Aelous' begins journey home as fuel runs out

After almost five years of spectacular science, the European Space Agency's (ESA) fifth Earth-exploring satellite, Aeolus, has embarked on its journey back to Earth.

Aeolus, the first mission to observe Earth's wind profiles on a global scale, has completed its end-of-life tests to begin its natural descent through Earth's atmosphere.

For the unversed, Aeolus' fuel was almost depleted, prompting the agency to make the decision to conclude the mission. Due to increased solar activity in recent months, the satellite was using even more fuel to maintain its orbit.

In a post shared by the ESA on Monday, June 26, the agency stated, "This week marks a significant milestone in the reentry process. End-of-life tests have ended. Aeolus will now start to naturally descend as Earth's atmosphere and gravity combine to drag the satellite down from an altitude of 320 km to 280 km."

The countdown is truly on now for Aeolus as it begins its journey home 🌠End-of-life tests are over. Aeolus will naturally descend as Earth's atmosphere and gravity combine to drag the satellite down.For now... we wait.More soon 📺#ByeByeAeolus👉https://t.co/E3PZrMb3Ul pic.twitter.com/AsSsA6Y0Cd

— esa aeolus mission (@esa_aeolus) June 27, 2023

Launched in 2018, Aeolus has surpassed expectations by operating well beyond its predicted lifespan of three years, extending its mission by an impressive 18 months. Throughout its operational tenure, Aeolus has been equipped with a groundbreaking instrument called ALADIN (Atmospheric Laser Doppler Instrument), which stands as Europe's most advanced Doppler wind lidar system to be deployed in space.

Aeolus's comprehensive observations have provided invaluable data on Earth's wind patterns, enhancing our understanding of atmospheric dynamics and contributing to advancements in meteorology, climate science, and weather forecasting. The satellite's extensive mission has been instrumental in improving the accuracy of weather predictions, aiding in disaster management, and supporting various scientific studies.

As Aeolus embarks on its descent, it will gradually decrease its orbit from an altitude of 320 km to 280 km, propelled by the combined forces of Earth's atmosphere and gravity. The satellite will burn up through Earth's atmosphere, ensuring the safety of those on the ground and minimizing space debris.