A massive space telescope operated by the US space agency NASA is heading towards Earth after spending nearly 22 years in space. There are concerns that fragments of the telescope could fall over parts of India, with Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Chennai falling within its potential re-entry zone.
The telescope, known as the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory, is expected to re-enter Earth’s atmosphere after completing its extended mission. While most of the spacecraft is likely to burn up during atmospheric re-entry, some debris could potentially survive and reach the Earth’s surface.
Launched on November 20, 2004, the observatory was initially named the Swift Gamma-Ray Burst Explorer. It was originally designed for a two-year mission but continued operating far beyond its expected lifespan.
When Will the Telescope Re-enter Earth?
According to NASA’s estimates, the spacecraft could re-enter Earth’s atmosphere on November 4 at around 2:30 pm Indian Standard Time. However, the exact timing and location remain uncertain.
NASA mission lead scientist Brad Cenko told the Associated Press that parts of Africa, Australia, India, Southeast Asia, and Central and South America fall within the possible re-entry zone.
The estimated re-entry corridor lies between 20.6 degrees south and 20.6 degrees north latitude.
Indian Cities Within the Potential Zone
Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Chennai fall within this geographical belt. However, this does not mean that debris will necessarily fall in these cities. The actual location will depend on the spacecraft’s position when it enters the atmosphere.
Scientists Monitoring Its Trajectory
India also has the capability to track objects returning from space. ISRO’s Multi-Object Tracking Radar (MOTR), located at Sriharikota, monitors rocket debris and satellites during their final orbital passes.
Experts believe most of the debris is likely to fall into the ocean, as nearly 70 per cent of Earth’s surface is covered by water. The possibility of damage to infrastructure or injury to people is considered extremely low.