Update on Re-entry of Mir Space Station 21 Mar 2001

Emergency Management Australia (EMA)

Dickson, Australian Capital Territory

MEDIA ENQUIRIES

Brian Flanagan

EMA Media Liaison

Mobile: 0409 489 344

EMA Media Release: 21 March 2001

EMA POSITION PAPER

Russian authorities have reconfirmed that the Mir Space Station is to
spashdown in the Pacific Ocean, midway between New Zealand and Chile,
about 5:20 – 5:30pm (Canberra time) [06:20 – 06:30 UTC] on Friday,
23 March 2001.

Mir’s current altitude is 224km. It is continuing in free flight and in
the past 24 hours lost 3.5km in altitude.

The de-orbit of Mir will commence with a series of three controlled braking
impulses after the station reaches an altitude of 220km. The entire
de-orbit/re-entry process is expected to be completed in about six hours.

NOTE FOR EDITORS/CHIEFS-OF-STAFF

Based on this information, EMA has planned media briefing updates on 23
March at 12 Noon, 1:30pm, 4:30pm and finally between 5:30-6pm.

The briefings will be in the EMA National Media Centre in the Annex of
Northbourne House (219 Northbourne Avenue, Canberra) which will be open
from 9am on Friday.

Parking at and around Northbourne House can be difficult and media
representatives are advised to ensure they allow sufficient time to park
legally prior to the briefings.

If television networks have specific requirements, contact should be made
with Brian Flanagan, EMA Media Liaison, on mobile 0409 489 344.