Removing 50 Objects from Orbit Could Cut Space Junk Danger by Half
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - A new study presented at the International Astronautical Congress in Sydney has identified 50 of the most concerning pieces of space debris in low-Earth orbit (LEO), with experts warning that removing these objects could cut the danger posed by space junk in half.
According to Darren McKnight, lead author of the paper, the majority of the problem lies with relics more than a quarter-century old, primarily dead rockets left to hurtle through space at the end of their missions. "Seventy-six percent of the objects in the top 50 were deposited last century, and 88 percent of the objects are rocket bodies," McKnight said.
These objects, which include fragments from defunct satellites and rocket stages, are whizzing around the Earth at nearly 5 miles per second, flying in a heavily trafficked part of LEO between 700 and 1,000 kilometers (435 to 621 miles) above the Earth. An impact with even a modestly sized object at orbital velocity would create countless pieces of debris, potentially triggering a cascading series of additional collisions.
The study's findings are significant, given the growing concern about space junk in LEO. The International Space Station and numerous commercial satellites operate in this region, making it a critical area for space exploration and development.
McKnight emphasized that removing these 50 objects would not only reduce the risk of collisions but also help to mitigate the creation of new debris. "It's a crucial step towards maintaining the sustainability of space activities," he said.
The study's authors propose that governments, space agencies, and private companies work together to develop strategies for safely removing or de-orbiting these objects. This could involve using specialized spacecraft or developing new technologies to capture and dispose of debris.
The removal of these 50 objects is seen as a critical step towards addressing the growing problem of space junk in LEO. As McKnight noted, "It's not just about cleaning up the mess; it's also about ensuring the long-term sustainability of space exploration."
Background
Space debris has become an increasingly pressing concern for governments and space agencies around the world. The United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) has been working to develop guidelines for responsible space activities, including measures to mitigate the creation of space junk.
The European Space Agency (ESA), NASA, and other space agencies have also launched initiatives to address the issue of space debris. These efforts include developing new technologies for detecting and tracking debris, as well as strategies for safely removing or de-orbiting objects.
Perspectives
Experts from around the world are calling for increased international cooperation to address the problem of space junk. "This is a global problem that requires a global solution," said Dr. Maria Zuber, a leading expert on space policy at Harvard University. "We need to work together to develop strategies for safely removing or de-orbiting these objects."
The removal of 50 objects from orbit could be a significant step towards reducing the danger posed by space junk. As McKnight noted, "It's not just about cleaning up the mess; it's also about ensuring the long-term sustainability of space exploration."
Next Developments
The study's authors are now working with governments and space agencies to develop strategies for safely removing or de-orbiting the identified objects. This could involve using specialized spacecraft or developing new technologies to capture and dispose of debris.
As the international community continues to grapple with the issue of space junk, experts are emphasizing the need for increased cooperation and coordination. "This is a critical moment in the history of space exploration," said McKnight. "We have the opportunity to take a major step towards ensuring the long-term sustainability of our activities in space."
*Reporting by Wired.*
