A decommissioned NASA satellite with a two-decade mission studying cosmic explosions is set to make an uncontrolled re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere, where it will largely disintegrate upon descent. Originally built for a two-year operational lifespan, the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory has since lost the ability to maneuver or conduct observations. Experts confirm the spacecraft will burn up during re-entry, though some debris may survive the fiery plunge. The event marks the end of a pioneering mission that advanced understanding of gamma-ray bursts and other high-energy phenomena.
Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory is expected to re-enter Earth’s atmosphere Wednesday, burning up in the processNasa’s Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory, which has spent two decades studying the most powerful explosions in the cosmos, is expected to re-enter the Earth’s atmosphere on Wednesday, burning up in the process.The satellite, which was designed to operate with its three telescopes for just two years, is no longer able to steer or observe, and its re-entry is uncontrolled. Continue reading...
