Introduction

On January 8, 2025, the ESA/JAXA BepiColombo spacecraft soared past Mercury for its sixth and final flyby, using the planet’s gravity to navigate its course towards orbiting Mercury in 2026. This milestone event isn’t just about the spacecraft’s trajectory; it also offers a chance to experience the fascinating sounds generated during this cosmic encounter!

Audio Experience

The audio track features real vibrations captured by the Italian Spring Accelerometer (ISA) instrument aboard BepiColombo. To make these vibrations audible, the team shifted the frequencies, compressing one hour of intricate measurements into a captivating one minute of sound. You might be surprised to hear the constant hum underlying the soundscape, a result of various activities aboard the spacecraft — from fuel sloshing around to solar panels vibrating and heat pipes transmitting vapor.

Shadow Sounds

As BepiColombo neared Mercury, the ISA recorded additional forces affecting the spacecraft. The most intriguing sounds, resembling soft bongs, were triggered as the spacecraft transitioned in and out of Mercury's shadow, where sunlight is momentarily obstructed. This fascinating phenomenon reflects changes in solar radiation pressure—an essential scientific goal for the mission as the spacecraft continues its journey.

Panel Adjustments

Notably, the loudest noises, characterized by an ominous rumbling, emerged from the rotation of BepiColombo's massive solar panels. The first panel adjustment can be heard at 00:17 in the audio track, followed by another adjustment at 00:51, which also appears in the spacecraft’s monitoring footage.

Gravitational Effects

Around the 30-second mark, faint sounds reminiscent of wind noise build in intensity, showcasing Mercury's gravitational field’s effect on the spacecraft. As it stretches the spacecraft slightly, structural responses are detectable, compounded by the onboard reaction wheels adjusting their speed to keep the spacecraft oriented — harmonizing in a stunning frequency shift audible in the sound.

Final Flyby

This flyby marks the last opportunity for BepiColombo to capture these effects with its large solar panels, which contribute to the vibrations detected. The module housing these panels is set to remain behind as the mission progresses into the orbit phase with the two accompanying orbiter spacecraft.

Visuals and Anticipation

Additionally, the video accompanying this event provides a stunning simulation of the spacecraft’s path, visualized using the SPICE-enhanced Cosmographia tool. Viewers can also catch glimpses of genuine photographs taken by BepiColombo’s monitoring cameras, adding a realistic touch to this awe-inspiring journey.

Conclusion

The scientific community and space enthusiasts alike are eagerly anticipating what discoveries await as BepiColombo closes in on Mercury! Don't miss out on future updates about this extraordinary mission!

Call to Action

Get ready to be captivated by the sounds of space—where adventure is just a sound wave away!