"Aeolus Navigates Earth's Fiery Welcome on Mission Impossible"
The European Space Agency (ESA) is preparing for its first-ever assisted satellite reentry as the wind-mapping satellite Aeolus nears the end of its mission. Despite being constructed before current end-of-life disposal regulations, ESA is striving to adhere to contemporary best practices by steering Aeolus towards an ocean reentry to minimize risk. Simulations are being conducted to ensure a safe and successful mission completion, although challenges posed by fluctuating atmospheric conditions due to heightened solar activity are creating uncertainties. The reentry maneuvers will be performed over uninhabited regions, and ground stations will track Aeolus's signal and provide new commands if needed.