ESA DeOrbits Aeolus Spacecraft, Concluding 5 Year Mission

After a highly successful mission, ESA has deorbited the Aeolus's spacecraft, bring to an end the groundbreaking 5 year mission studying Earth's weather and climate monitoring.

The Aeolus spacecraft was launched by the ESA on August 22, 2018, with the primary objective of measuring wind profiles across the globe. Over the past five years, it has gathered valuable data on atmospheric dynamics and played a pivotal role in improving weather forecasts and understanding climate patterns. The advanced laser-based instrument aboard Aeolus has provided scientists with unprecedented insights into the planet's atmospheric circulation.

"Throughout its operational life, Aeolus has delivered a wealth of crucial data, enhancing our understanding of atmospheric dynamics and contributing to more accurate weather forecasts. Now, as the mission reaches its final phase, we are preparing for a controlled re-entry to minimize any potential risks," - Dr. Josef Aschbacher, ESA's Director General

ESA sent the last commands to Aeolus at 15:57 CEST, Aeolus begain its final manoeuvre at 17:15 CEST.

At 17:38 CEST, Mission Control confirmed they had completed everything planned, and Aeolus is now out of their hands. "From skilled engineers to wonderful wizards in the flight dynamics team, it’s a proud moment in the Main Control Room." 

Aeolus final maneuvre was confrimed succesful at 18:44 CEST by the Fraunhofer TIRA radar in Germany. Data from the TIRA radar was analysed and confirmed that Aeolus was spotted almost exactly where it was expected.

At 21:03 CEST, ESA released statment saying "According to our calculations, Aeolus should now have reentered Earth’s atmosphere. Our Earth Observer, became a shooting star. Now we wait for confirmation from our partners with information on the exact time and location of entry."

This is a developing story and will be updated when more information becomes avaiable.