Defunct NASA Satellite Unexpectedly Revives, Firing Mysterious Energy Pulse That Illuminates Sky
NASA’s Long-Dormant Satellite Surprises Astronomers with Mysterious Radio Burst
A defunct NASA satellite, inactive since 1967, stunned astronomers by emitting a rare, powerful radio signal detected by telescopes in Western Australia. The brief but intense burst momentarily outshone galaxies, sparking intrigue and theories about its origin.
The Discovery
The signal, spotted by the Australian Square Kilometer Array Pathfinder (ASKAP), was traced to Relay 2—a retired communications satellite launched in 1964. Designed to study Earth’s radiation belts and aid global communications, Relay 2 lost both transmitters by 1967 and became space junk. Decades later, it unexpectedly released a fraction-of-a-second burst brighter than any cosmic object in the sky.
Relay 2, a NASA communications satellite launched in 1964 (Image: NASA).
Mystery Solved… and Sparked
Initially, scientists suspected a celestial source like a pulsar or fast radio burst (FRB)—cosmic flashes typically from distant galaxies. However, pinpointing the origin to Relay 2, just 2,800 miles above Earth, ruled out deep space. Lead researcher Dr. Clancy James (Curtin University) remarked, “We saw an incredibly powerful radio pulse that eclipsed everything else in the sky for a split second.”
Possible Causes
Experts propose two explanations:
- Electrostatic Discharge: Built-up electrical charge due to orbiting through Earth’s magnetic field triggered a spark-like release.
- Micrometeoroid Impact: A high-speed space rock collision generated charged particles and heat.
The burst’s energy (~400 watts, akin to a microwave) retained surprising strength reaching Earth, registering over three million janskys—100 billion times stronger than smartphone signals.
Australian scientists detected the burst while hunting FRBs using the ASKAP telescope network (Stock Image).
Implications for Astronomy
While the event risked confusing astronomers scanning for genuine cosmic signals, it offers research opportunities. Dr. Karen Aplin (University of Bristol) suggests such anomalies could help study electrostatic activity in orbit—a potential tool for understanding space weather.
A Cosmic Coincidence
The signal’s nanosecond duration and precise alignment with Relay 2’s position confirmed its source. Still, its unprecedented intensity challenges expectations for dormant satellites. “External triggers like these are rare but enlightening,” noted Dr. James.
Conclusion
This bizarre burst underscores the unpredictable nature of space technology and the value of unexpected discoveries. As astronomers refine detection methods, even retired satellites like Relay 2 remind us that the cosmos—and its human-made companions—still hold surprises.
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