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NASA's Van Allen Probe A will re-enter Earth's atmosphere on March 10 or 11, 2026, following nearly 14 years in orbit. Launched in August 2012, it was designed to study Earth's radiation belts alongside Probe B, which is expected to re-enter in 2030.

The U.S. Space Force anticipates re-entry around 12:45 AM on March 11, with a 24-hour margin of error. NASA estimates a minimal injury risk of 1 in 4200 for people on the ground.

Increased solar activity has caused the atmosphere to expand, increasing drag on satellites. Over 27,000 tracked objects larger than 10 cm currently orbit Earth, contributing to space debris concerns.