Russian space officials now estimate that Phobos-Grunt will fall to Earth on Jan. 15, though the date could change “due to external factors. The probe will re-enter somewhere between 51 degrees north and 51 degress south latitude; the exact location won’t be known until the time of re-entry is pinpointed.
A French skywatcher has recorded what is likely one of the last videos of the falling Phobos-Grunt space probe.
This video of Phobos-Grunt was taken by Thierry Legault and Emmanuel Rietsch from the Calern plateau Observatory (above Nice, French Riviera) on January 1st 2012, during a zenithal passage (culmination at 88.5° of altitude at 6:17:24 UTC, direction NNE), moving at speed of 7.75km/sec, 237 km high from the ground. The spacecraft may crash back to Earth on January 15th.
SPACE.com is providing full coverage of Phobos-Grunt’s re-entry, including a look at the issues surrounding orbital debris and space situational awareness.
We value the thoughts and opinions of our readers and welcome healthy discussions on our website. In order to maintain a respectful and positive community, we ask that all commenters follow these rules.
Commenting rules and guidelines
We value the thoughts and opinions of our readers and welcome healthy discussions on our website. In order to maintain a respectful and positive community, we ask that all commenters follow these rules.