A NASA satellite launched more than a decade ago is now set to return to Earth. The spacecraft, known as Van Allen Probe A, has been orbiting the planet since its launch in August 2012 and is expected to re-enter Earth’s atmosphere soon.
Van Allen Probe A, weighing around 600 kilograms, was part of a twin mission alongside Van Allen Probe B. Both spacecraft were designed to study Earth’s radiation belts—regions of high-energy particles trapped by the planet’s magnetic field.
According to NASA, the satellite is predicted to re-enter the atmosphere around March 10 at approximately 7:45 PM EDT, with a margin of error of plus or minus 24 hours. Although most of the spacecraft is expected to burn up during re-entry, some components may survive and reach the surface.
However, officials have emphasized that the risk to people is extremely low—estimated at about 1 in 4,200. This is largely because nearly 70% of Earth’s surface is covered by water, making it far more likely that any surviving debris will fall into the ocean.
Originally planned as a two-year mission, the Van Allen Probes operated for nearly seven years, providing valuable insights into Earth’s radiation belts. These regions play a crucial role in protecting the planet from harmful solar radiation and charged particles emitted by the Sun.
The mission concluded in 2019 after both spacecraft ran out of fuel and could no longer maintain proper orientation toward the Sun. Scientists had initially predicted that Van Allen Probe A would re-enter Earth’s atmosphere around 2034. However, increased solar activity during the current solar cycle accelerated its orbital decay, bringing its return forward.
The probes were named after physicist James Van Allen, who discovered the radiation belts that bear his name. Their findings have significantly advanced our understanding of space weather and its impact on Earth.
Meanwhile, NASA has indicated that Van Allen Probe B is expected to re-enter Earth’s atmosphere sometime before 2030.
