Europe's Space Agency Implements Assisted Re-Entry for Retiring Satellite, Setting a Responsible Precedent

The European Space Agency (ESA) is attempting a "first of its kind" assisted re-entry for its observation satellite Aeolus, which has exceeded expectations during its five-year mission. As the satellite was not designed for a controlled re-entry, ESA aims to reduce the risk of harming humans or infrastructure and set an example for responsible space practices. Aeolus will be brought back to Earth gradually over four stages, with the majority expected to burn up in the atmosphere. ESA plans to make all future spacecraft "debris neutral" to ensure space safety and sustainability.