Dead NASA satellite can cause 2024 radio burst in Relay 2

In June 2024, scientists found a mysterious, powerful burst of radio waves born inside our galaxy. At first, they believed that it was coming from a Pulseer or another discovered cosmic item. However, an analysis revealed that the origin of the signal was very close to the earth. Astronomers believe it was due to a long -dead NASA satellite relay 2, launched in 1964 but ended the operations in 1967 after failing the communication system. Nevertheless, about 60 years later, it mysteriously eliminated a powerful radio signal, researchers said in a new print print study, which was posted on June 13 in the server Archives and has not yet been reviewed.

Relay 2: A quiet satellite sends a sharp signal

According to StudyThe signal was detected using the Australian square kilometer of the Sarney Path Finder (Askap) telescope array. This intense brightness usually begins with a deep place and can take more energy in millions than sun emissions in several days.

But this gesture, just about 30 nano -seconds, was traced around the earth, which was clearly close to the skip to focus clearly. After rejecting the cosmic sources, the team traced the pulse in the orbit of the relay 2. Despite the working system, the satellite somehow emitted the brightest radio flash in the sky.

Researchers suggested two theories: an microtte -effect that made a radio exclusion plasma cloud, or electro -static discharge (ESD) due to blood up to the satellite’s elderly material.

New indications about spacecraft’s behavior and space debris

Although both mechanisms can develop similar indicators, scientists are inclined towards electro static discharge as it is. According to space physicists, old spacecraft such as Relay 2 can be released due to outdated materials and limited shedding, such as energy.

Karen Applin Told The new scientist Studying this accidental emission can help monitor ESD events on today’s small satellites – many of which lack advanced safety. In a growing crowded environment, how to detect it can offer a new tool to evaluate space debris and satellite health.