Removing 50 Objects from Orbit Would Cut Danger From Space Junk in Half, Study Finds
SYDNEY, Australia (AP) - A new study presented at the International Astronautical Congress here Friday suggests that removing just 50 of the most concerning pieces of space debris in low-Earth orbit could cut the overall debris-generating potential by half.
According to Darren McKnight, lead author of the paper and a researcher at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), the top 50 objects are responsible for a significant portion of the risk of collisions in low-Earth orbit. "If we were to remove these 50 objects, it would reduce the overall debris-generating potential by 50 percent," McKnight said.
The study identified Russia and the Soviet Union as the leading contributors to space junk, with 34 objects in low-Earth orbit. China follows closely behind with 10 objects, while the United States has three, Europe has two, and Japan has one. The majority of these objects are post-mission rocket bodies left behind by spacecraft.
"The things left before 2000 are still the majority of the problem," McKnight noted, highlighting the legacy of space debris from past missions. "76 of the objects in the top 50 were deposited last century."
The study also found that China has been a significant contributor to new space junk, launching 21 rocket bodies into low-Earth orbit since January 2024, each weighing over 4 metric tons (8,800 pounds). The United States and Europe have also contributed to this problem.
McKnight emphasized the importance of addressing the issue of space debris. "The bad news is that since January 1, 2024, we've had 26 rocket bodies abandoned in low-Earth orbit that will stay in orbit for more than 25 years," he said.
Experts say that the study highlights the need for international cooperation to address the problem of space debris. "This study shows that removing just a small number of objects can make a significant difference, but it also underscores the need for a broader effort to reduce space debris," said Dr. Maria Zuber, a planetary scientist at MIT.
The International Astronautical Federation has called for greater international cooperation on space debris mitigation and removal efforts. "We need to work together to develop strategies for removing space debris from orbit and preventing new objects from being added," said the federation's president, Dr. Jean-Yves Le Gall.
As the world continues to rely on space-based technologies, the issue of space debris is becoming increasingly pressing. The study's findings highlight the urgent need for action to mitigate this problem and ensure the long-term sustainability of space exploration.
The International Astronautical Congress will continue through next week, with experts from around the world gathering to discuss the latest developments in space technology and policy.
*Reporting by Science.*
