Pioneering ERS-2 Satellite Completes Atmospheric Reentry After Three Decades

The European Space Agency's ERS-2 satellite has safely reentered the Earth's atmosphere, marking the end of its significant contribution to Earth observation and the advancement of satellite technology.

A pioneering European satellite, ERS-2, launched in 1995, has completed its atmospheric reentry over the North Pacific Ocean, marking the end of its three-decade-long mission.
ERS-2 was instrumental in advancing Earth observation, providing critical data on land surfaces, ocean temperatures, the ozone layer, and polar ice extent.
The satellite's reentry was closely monitored by international agencies, with most of its mass expected to burn up in the atmosphere, posing minimal risk to humans and property.
ESA's commitment to minimizing space debris is highlighted by the controlled deorbiting of ERS-2 and the adoption of the 'ESA Zero Debris' initiative for future missions.
ERS-2's legacy continues through its contribution to scientific research and the development of subsequent Earth observation missions, including the Copernicus Sentinel satellites.