The satellite, weighing 4.5 tons, was originally intended for multiple missions but carried out just one flight due to budget reductions. Outfitted with 15 interchangeable experimental instruments, EURECA supported a broad span of scientific research from biology to astrophysics. After its mission, it was exhibited at the Swiss Museum of Transport before researchers transferred it to Empa for analysis.
In 2016, Empa began X-raying EURECA using a high-energy facility, making it possible to image the entire satellite in one piece as well as several components and scientific payloads. The results, published in 2025 in Acta Astronautica, reveal both internal structures and damage. Investigators identified cracks in composite struts, fractures, deformations, and evidence of residues in the fuel and gas tanks. Images indicated a modular internal skeleton and various mechanical flaws.
Lead scientist Robert Zboray commented, "Our analysis covers several orders of magnitude, from the entire carrier structure of the satellite to investigations of materials at nanometer scale." He added that satellites face strong radiation, major temperature shifts, and impacts from micrometeoroids and debris, and noted the importance of identifying weak points. Zboray recommends X-ray imaging of reusable satellites before launch and after landing to pinpoint when damage occurs.
With more than 10000 satellites orbiting Earth as of 2025, reusable hardware and maintenance solutions are increasingly relevant. Researchers propose non-destructive X-ray methods could optimize future satellite and aerospace design, reduce orbital debris, and extend applications to fields such as aviation, automotive part inspection, and forensics.
Research Report:Multi-scale and multi-energy non-destructive X-ray analysis of the European Retrievable Carrier (EURECA)
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