Successful insertion into target orbit
The SMILE spacecraft, a joint venture of the European Space Agency (ESA) and the China National Space Administration (CNSA), reached its designated science orbit around Earth on 20 June 2026. The maneuver proceeded as scheduled, positioning the probe for its primary observational tasks.
Commencement of two‑month commissioning
Following orbit insertion, a comprehensive two‑month test phase has begun. All scientific payloads will be powered on, calibrated and validated. Instruments include magnetometers, plasma detectors and high‑energy particle sensors, essential for studying the interaction between the solar wind and Earth’s atmosphere.
Collaboration and technical objectives
The mission showcases close cooperation between European and Chinese space agencies. In addition to scientific goals, SMILE serves as a testbed for technologies intended for future joint missions, such as modular instrument suites and onboard automated data processing.
Future outlook
Upon completion of the commissioning activities, SMILE will transition to regular science operations, delivering continuous measurements of solar‑Earth coupling for several years. The data are expected to enhance fundamental understanding of space weather and improve forecasting capabilities for geomagnetic disturbances.