Who sent mysterious radio burst in 2024? Study reveals the presence of a ‘zombie' NASA Satellite. Here's truth
In June 2024, astronomers detected a powerful burst of radio waves from within the Milky Way. After investigation, scientists now believe the signal came from a deactivated or zombie NASA satellite launched in the 1960s. This discovery could help researchers better understand unusual signals in space and the behavior of old satellites.
Signal Detected from Within Our Galaxy
A burst of radio waves was picked up by astronomers in June 2024. It was detected by the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder (ASKAP) in Western Australia. ASKAP has 36 identical dish antennas. This array searches for short but strong radio signals in space.
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Usually, radio bursts come from distant galaxies. These signals often release energy equal to what the sun produces in three days. But this signal came from much closer. It started inside the Milky Way galaxy, very near to Earth. ASKAP could not focus on it clearly, similar to a phone camera failing to focus on a nearby object.
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NASA Satellite Named as Likely Source
A team of scientists investigated the source. They ruled out new space objects. The only possible match was an old NASA satellite called Relay 2. This satellite was launched in 1964. It stopped working in 1967 after its two transmitters failed, a New Scientist report said citing a new preprint study.
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Despite being inactive for many years, Relay 2 may have created the radio pulse detected in 2024. The researchers shared their findings in a study on arXiv on June 13. The study is not yet peer-reviewed.
Unusual Nature of the Signal
The signal lasted only 30 nanoseconds. It was very strong but very brief. The pattern of the pulse did not match any known function of Relay 2. This ruled out the chance that it was a planned transmission.
Researchers looked into other possible causes. They believe it may have happened because of a
micrometeorite impact
or an electrostatic discharge. Both events can create powerful radio signals in space.
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Possible Reason
Micrometeorites are tiny space rocks. When they hit a spacecraft, they can cause changes in the spacecraft's surface. These changes may increase electrical activity and release radio waves. Scientists have noted that micrometeorite impacts can directly create such signals.
According to the researchers, if a micrometeorite hit Relay 2, it might have created plasma. This would allow electric charges to build up and discharge quickly. That could explain the strong radio pulse.
Electrostatic Discharge More Likely
Scientists say that electrostatic discharge (ESD) is a more likely cause. ESD happens when electric charges between two surfaces suddenly flow. Spacecraft surfaces can carry different charges due to space conditions.
Relay 2 was built many years ago. Its materials might hold electric charges more easily than modern satellites. When the charge becomes too strong, it can discharge and produce radio waves.
According to the study, ESD has long been known to create radio pulses. The research team believes Relay 2's old design may have made it more likely to generate a strong pulse in space.
FAQs
What is electrostatic discharge and how can it affect satellites?
Electrostatic discharge is the sudden flow of electricity between charged surfaces. In satellites, it can create short radio bursts or damage electronic parts.
Why is this radio signal from Relay 2 important to scientists?
The signal helps scientists understand how old satellites might still produce activity. It may also offer a way to detect discharges from space debris or inactive satellites.
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