ESA's Groundbreaking Aeolus Manoeuvre: The Innovative 'Assisted Re-Entry' of the 'Impossible Satellite'

The ESA performed an unprecedented 'assisted re-entry' for the Aeolus satellite, setting new stewardship standards.

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ESA's strategic re-entry trajectory over the Atlantic Ocean reduced risk to populated regions.

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Aeolus revolutionised our understanding of wind patterns, improving weather forecast precision, crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Aeolus's end posed a complex challenge to ESA engineers due to its lack of design for controlled reentry.

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Using leftover fuel, ESA guided Aeolus from 200 to 75 miles above Earth using precise thruster firings.

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This first-ever 'assisted re-entry' sets an example for space agencies and commercial entities.

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Despite Aeolus's mission end, its data legacy continues, inspiring the development of follow-up spacecraft, Aeolus-2.

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The Aeolus story highlights responsible handling of older satellites, promoting sustainable cosmic exploration.

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