science π ESA's BepiColombo nears Mercury orbit hurdle
BepiColombo is close to entering orbit around Mercury, a tough planet due to intense solar radiation and heat. ESA mission managers confirm readiness for September 3rd when the spacecraft splits apart in Darmstadt, Germany. The mission has taken eight years and involved nine planetary flybys to reach this point. The two probes, MPO and Mio, will start science work after separation from the non-controlled MTM module. The final science phase for these orbiters is scheduled to begin in April 2027.