For decades, spacefaring nations have launched a multitude of satellites and other objects into orbit, making them critical to the functioning of modern society. From providing vital data for scientific research to enabling television and communication services, satellites serve numerous purposes. However, the increasing number of retired and defunct satellites poses a rising challenge: space debris.
As satellites age and cease operations, they linger in low-Earth orbit, contributing to an expanding “space junkyard.” This debris not only threatens future satellite launches but also poses risks for crewed missions—recently highlighted when the International Space Station (ISS) was compelled to alter its trajectory to avoid a piece of debris from a defunct meteorological satellite.
Space junk, encompassing non-operational satellites, spent rocket stages, and even lost astronaut tools, continues to orbit Earth, with around 50,000 tons of material launched since the 1950s. As of September 2024, the total estimated mass of objects in orbit exceeds 13,000 tons. Among the 19,590 satellites sent into space since 1957, only about 10,200 remain operational, leading to concerns about future collisions.
The emergence of the Kessler Syndrome—a scenario whereby collisions create a cascade of debris, potentially rendering Earth’s orbit unusable—is alarming. Historical incidents, such as the 2009 collision of two satellites, underscore this risk, leading to the creation of even more debris.
In response to this increasingly critical issue, organizations like NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) are enhancing their efforts to manage space debris. ESA’s Zero Debris Charter aims for a global commitment to significantly reduce space junk by 2030. NASA is also active with its Orbital Debris Program, focused on minimizing the creation of new debris and developing means to track and remove existing junk.
This collaborative focus on preserving space as a vital resource is essential, reflecting the urgent need to safeguard the future of our collective space endeavors. With advancements in technology and international cooperation, there is hope for sustainable space activities that can continue to benefit humanity for generations to come.