"30-Year-Old European Satellite ERS-2 Plummets to Earth"

The European satellite ERS-2, launched in 1995, is set to re-enter Earth's atmosphere after almost 30 years in orbit, with its descent expected to occur over the Pacific Ocean. The satellite, which revolutionized Earth observation, will break up and burn upon re-entry, with the majority of debris likely to disperse harmlessly. The European Space Agency emphasized the low risks associated with satellite re-entries and highlighted that the satellite's components are not radioactive or toxic. This event underscores the increasing need to manage space debris and encourage the controlled re-entry of defunct satellites to maintain a clear space environment for future missions.