What Happens If NASA’s Satellite Crashes to Earth After 14 Years in Orbit?

A satellite launched by NASA more than a decade ago is expected to return to Earth soon. The spacecraft, called Van Allen Probe A, has been orbiting the planet for nearly 14 years and is now predicted to re-enter Earth’s atmosphere within the next day or two. The space agency earlier estimated that the probe would begin re-entry around 7:45 p.m. ET on Tuesday (March 10), though the timing could vary by as much as 24 hours. According to NASA, the risk of damage on the ground is extremely low. Most of the more than 600-kg spacecraft is expected to burn up due to intense heat while passing through Earth’s atmosphere. However, some small components may survive the re-entry. Scientists estimate that the chance of debris harming a person is about one in 4,200, which the agency describes as minimal. 22 A satellite launched by NASA more than a decade ago is expected to return to Earth soon. The spacecraft, called Van Allen Probe A, has been orbiting the planet for nearly 14 years and is now predicted to re-enter Earth’s atmosphere within the next... [2736 chars]