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The European Space Agency (ESA) is launching the DRACO mission to study satellite reentry and space debris.
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The mission involves destroying a satellite in 2027 to gather data on its disintegration process.
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DRACO aims to mitigate space junk and ensure safer space exploration.
The European Space Agency (ESA) is tackling the growing problem of space debris with its innovative DRACO mission. By intentionally destroying a satellite, ESA will gather crucial data on how satellites break apart during reentry.
The DRACO satellite, built by Deimos, will be equipped with 200 sensors and four cameras to collect data on its disintegration. A survival capsule will transmit this data back to Earth as it descends towards the ocean.
The mission’s success hinges on overcoming technical challenges, including transmitting data within a 20-minute window. DRACO will mimic uncontrolled reentry, lacking propulsion and navigation systems.
By studying satellite reentry, ESA’s DRACO mission will contribute to safer, more sustainable space exploration. As space debris accumulates, this research is critical for protecting operational spacecraft and ensuring the future of space travel.
