Alarm at NASA: a “dead” satellite from 1964 sent a mysterious signal to Earth

An unusual radio signal, detected by astronomers in June 2024, seems to have been issued by a NASA satellite over 50, considered “dead” for decades.

An old NASA satellite has transmitted a strange signal to the photo: shutterstock

On June 13, 2024, scientists who used ASKAP telescope in Australia observed a rapid radio explosion (FAST-Fast Radio Burst), a cosmic phenomenon known for its mysterious origins, usually at billions of years away. Only, this time, the signal seemed to come from only 4,500 kilometers of land.

After a detailed analysis, astronomers came to the conclusion that the source of the signal was an object that orbits the Earth. Specifically, the Lay 2 satellite, launched by NASA in 1964 and declared non -functional since 1967. Although considered inactive for over five decades, the satellite is still floating in space, on the terrestrial orbit, reports Union Rayo.

What is a FRB

FRB, the shortage from Fast Radio Burst, is an extremely powerful and short -term radio broadcast, which lasts only a few milliseconds. These signals are usually detected from distant places in the universe, often from other galaxies. This is why the discovery of a FRB that seems to come from the Earth’s orbit has raised serious question marks in the scientific community.

How is it possible for a “dead” satellite to transmit signals

Even though the relay 2 is no longer functional for decades, scientists have taken into account two possible explanations for the surprisingly detected signal. One of the hypotheses is electrostatic discharge – satellites can accumulate electricity in space and, at one point, can release it, generating a detectable radio impulse, explain the researchers.

The second variant taken into account is the collision with a micrometeorite. These tiny particles, which float through space, can hit satellites, causing an explosion of energy that could also generate a radio signal.

In the case of relay 2, the specialists believe that the signal would have been produced by an electric shock, accumulated over the years.

What is relay 2 and why does it matter today

Long 2 was one of the first communications satellites launched by NASA. Although he had a short life, working only until 1967, he remained in orbit and is currently considered a space waste, a classic example of abandoned technology, but still active in unexpected ways.

Why is this discovery important

Although it is not about a spectacular image on Mars or a new exoplanet, the signal issued by Relay 2 has serious scientific implications. Researchers can learn how to differentiate artificial signals, coming from human, authentic devices, which come from the depths of the cosmos.

It is a relevant discovery for understanding the risks that old satellites can present for modern space research and for the operation of active, essential satellites, communications or internet, say specialists.

In addition, the study could help protect current technology from phenomena such as electrical discharges or micrometerial impacts.

Old satellites, new problems

The event determined the researchers to turn their attention to other old objects that still orb the earth. Although they seem harmless, they can cause confusion or even damages in modern communications networks.

The discovery shows that including the satellites considered dead can have an unexpected impact on science. Therefore, it is important to better understand the behavior of these objects and to take measures to manage the orbital space responsibly.