The European Space Agency (ESA) and the Chinese mainland have completed rigorous testing of the SMILE satellite—Solar wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer—which is now in storage, gearing up for its spring 2026 launch.
Set to blast off aboard a Vega-C rocket from French Guiana in April or May 2026, SMILE will dive into the heart of space weather: studying how charged particles from the Sun interact with Earth’s magnetic shield.
Featuring cutting-edge instruments, the mission will observe dynamic solar wind events during the peak of the Sun's 11-year activity cycle, allowing scientists to capture high-resolution data on magnetic storms and auroras.
“This partnership showcases the power of international teamwork,” says ESA Chief Scientist Carole Mundell. “By combining European and the Chinese mainland expertise, SMILE will offer fresh insights into space weather phenomena that impact our planet.”
Beyond its scientific goals, SMILE represents a milestone in global collaboration, uniting young engineers and researchers across continents and inspiring the next generation of space explorers.
As we count down to liftoff, the mission promises to illuminate the invisible forces shaping our space environment—and to spark wonder in anyone who gazes at the sky.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
