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Re-entry phase
Definition
Re-entry Phase: The re-entry phase refers to the stage in a mission where an orbital object, such as a satellite or spacecraft, descends from its orbit and re-enters the Earth's atmosphere.
This phase is critical for safely guiding the object back to Earth, ensuring it does not pose a threat to populations or infrastructure.
Typically, the re-entry phase involves controlled maneuvers to reduce speed, manage heat generated by atmospheric friction, and ensure the object lands in a predetermined area, such as an ocean or a sparsely populated region.
This phase is part of the broader mission disposal strategy aimed at reducing space debris and enhancing space sustainability by safely deorbiting non-functional or end-of-life satellites.
It requires precise calculations and coordination to minimize risks and ensure compliance with international guidelines on space debris mitigation.
Safety, responsibility, and monitoring
The re-entry phase directly affects public safety and the operator’s responsibility, as it determines where and when an object will leave orbit and what risks it poses on the ground and in space.
It requires close monitoring of the final orbital passes, rapid updates of predictions (time window, overflight corridor, dispersion), and effective coordination with stakeholders to manage the uncertainty linked to atmospheric drag and possible maneuvers.
It also contributes to the sustainability of the space environment by supporting controlled end-of-life strategies that comply with debris mitigation guidelines.
Operational support with Look Up and SYNAPSE
Look Up detects and tracks objects in LEO using its SORASYS radars to maintain an up-to-date situational picture through the terminal phases, when responsiveness is critical.
SYNAPSE merges this data with external sources, catalogs the object, and delivers actionable alerts and predictions via API or interface to speed up decision-making and operational coordination.
Together, they help operators and institutional actors reduce uncertainty, prioritize risks, and protect assets during the final orbits and re-entry.
We deliver space situational awareness (SSA) and space domain awareness (SDA) solutions that help secure active satellites and ensure safe operations in the ever-growing expanse of space.