Science
BepiColombo probe approaches Mercury after propulsion delay, Wired reports
Wired reports that the ESA-JAXA BepiColombo spacecraft separated its propulsion module and is descending toward low Mercury orbit.
The short version
- After eight years in space and a propulsion malfunction, the BepiColombo spacecraft has begun its descent toward Mercury's orbit.[Wired]
- The mission will split into two orbiters to examine Mercury's surface, interior structure, magnetic field, and atmosphere.[Wired]
- Full-scale scientific observations are set to begin in April 2027 following instrument deployments.[Wired]
Key facts
- BepiColombo is a joint mission between the European Space Agency and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency.[Wired]
- The probe's arrival at Mercury was delayed by nearly a year due to a propulsion system malfunction.[Wired]
- Ground control confirmed the propulsion module successfully detached from the main spacecraft on September 3.[Wired]
- The craft will deploy two orbiters, the Mercury Planetary Orbiter and Mio, to gather scientific data.[Wired]
- Full-scale scientific operations are slated to start in April 2027.[Wired]
What remains uncertain
- The successful execution of orbital maneuvers leading up to final orbit placement in March 2027 and observation start in April 2027.[Wired]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.