Van Allen Probe A Reenters Earth

Van Allen Probes A, a 1,323-pound United States — NASA satellite, is expected to reenter Earth's atmosphere on March 10, 2026, after nearly 14 years in orbit. Launched in August 2012 with its twin, Van Allen Probes B, the mission studied Earth's radiation belts. Both probes were deactivated in 2019 due to fuel depletion. While most of Van Allen Probes A is expected to burn up, some components may survive reentry. United States — NASA officials state the risk of harm to anyone on Earth is low, approximately 1 in 4,200, as surviving debris is likely to land in the ocean. The United States provided the estimated reentry time, which may be updated. The mission, managed by United States — Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, exceeded its initial two-year lifespan and provided crucial data for understanding space weather and its impact on satellites, astronauts, and ground systems like communications and power grids. Unexpected solar activity accelerated Van Allen Probes A's reentry, originally predicted for 2034, while Van Allen Probes B is not expected to reenter before 2030.