Space Debris

What Is Space Debris?

Space debris (also called “space junk” or “orbital debris”) refers to non-functional, human-made objects in Earth’s orbit. This includes:

• Defunct satellites

• Spent rocket stages

• Fragmentation debris from explosions or collisions

• Pieces of spacecraft, bolts, paint flecks, and tools lost during missions

As of today, there are hundreds of millions of debris pieces, from large dead satellites to tiny fragments under a centimeter in size.

Why It’s a Problem

1. Collision Risk

Even small pieces of debris travel at speeds of 17,000+ mph (27,000 km/h). At that velocity, a bolt or paint chip can pierce spacecraft hulls, destroy sensitive instruments, or cause catastrophic satellite failures.

2. Threat to Human Life

The International Space Station (ISS) and future crewed missions face a constant threat. ISS often performs evasive maneuvers to avoid collisions with debris.

3. Chain Reaction – The Kessler Syndrome

Coined by NASA scientist Donald Kessler, this is a theoretical scenario where one collision causes a cascade of debris-generating collisions. It could make some orbits unusable for decades or centuries.

4. Satellite Disruption

Vital services like GPS, weather forecasting, internet, and military communications rely on satellites that are increasingly at risk.

Sources of Space Debris

• Explosions: Leftover fuel or batteries can detonate after missions end.

• Collisions: Accidental or intentional satellite collisions (like China’s 2007 ASAT test) have created large debris fields.

• Fragmentation: Satellites breaking apart due to age or malfunction.

Solutions and Mitigation Strategies

1. Debris Removal Technologies

• Harpoons and nets to capture debris

• Laser systems to nudge debris into lower orbits for controlled reentry

• Magnetic tugs for metal-based debris

2. Deorbiting Protocols

• Designing satellites to burn up on reentry at mission end

• Adding propulsion or drag devices (like sails) for self-deorbiting

3. Improved Tracking

• Global systems like Space Surveillance Networks monitor and catalog debris

• Operators can plan maneuvers to avoid known debris paths

4. International Cooperation

• Agencies like NASA, ESA, JAXA, and others are forming standards and guidelines

• Need for enforceable global space traffic rules

Conclusion

Space debris poses a serious and growing challenge to the sustainability of space exploration and satellite services. Without coordinated action, we risk losing access to safe and functional orbits. The time to clean up and regulate Earth’s orbital environment is now.