We often look up at the sky and admire the picturesque view—the stars, the moon, and the planets. However, there are countless wonders beyond what the naked eye can capture, revealed to us through satellites and imaging tools. These include not only Earth-based telescopes but also those sent into space for greater precision. But have we ever stopped to think about what happens to these rockets and satellites once their missions are complete? While much of our attention has been focused on the pressing issues of waste accumulation and disposal on Earth, we seldom consider the debris left in space. Who is responsible for managing space junk? How did this problem start, and is there progress in cleaning up space?
“Space Debris” or “Orbital debris” has been a major concern for all space scientists and enthusiasts. Space debris, also known as "space junk consists of defunct human-made objects in space that no longer serve a useful purpose. This debris can include anything from spent rocket stages and defunct satellites to fragments created from collisions. With the increasing density of these objects in orbit, space debris has become a significant hazard to active spacecraft, satellites, and even the International Space Station (ISS). It is estimated by ESA (European Space Agency) that over 36,500 pieces of large debris (10 cm) and millions of small debris (1cm) have been orbiting Earth. Whether big or small, this debris moves with a velocity of 28,000 km/hour, which could be lethal for any working satellite or spacecraft.
Space debris comes from defunct satellites and spacecraft left in orbit after their operational lives and rocket stages that remain in space post-launch. Collisions and explosions between objects, including intentional ASAT missile tests, create thousands of fragments. Space missions also unintentionally contribute debris, such as lost tools or parts during spacewalks and repairs. One notable example of space debris threatening space activities occurred in 2009 when the defunct Russian satellite Kosmos 2251 collided with the active Iridium 33 communications satellite. This collision resulted in over 2,000 pieces of trackable debris and many smaller fragments.
These concerns have been given heave to in the recent times and hence necessary step are being taken for the same. ESA's ClearSpace-1 mission, planned for the mid-2020s, is one of the first attempts at ADR, aiming to remove a defunct payload adapter from orbit. To prevent future debris, satellites and rockets are increasingly being designed with end-of-life disposal mechanisms. Satellites in low-Earth orbit (LEO) are often programmed to re-enter the Earth's atmosphere and burn up after their mission is complete, while satellites in higher orbits may be moved to a "graveyard orbit" to avoid collision risks. New technologies are emerging to combat space debris. One promising development is the use of "drag sails" or "electrodynamic tethers" on satellites. These devices increase atmospheric drag, causing the satellite to deorbit faster after its mission ends. Companies like SpaceX have also pioneered innovations such as reusable rockets, which reduce the number of spent rocket stages left in orbit.
Additionally, several proposed methods aim to clean up existing debris. These range from using laser beams to nudge debris into lower orbits to deploying spacecraft equipped with nets or robotic arms that can capture and deorbit large objects.
In conclusion, while we continue to marvel at the vastness of space and the advancements made in space exploration, the growing problem of space debris cannot be ignored. With thousands of defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, and collision fragments orbiting Earth at high speeds, the risk to active missions and essential satellites is rising. Fortunately, global efforts are underway to address this issue. From innovative solutions such as drag sails, reusable rockets, and debris-capturing technologies, the path toward cleaner, safer orbits is being paved. As Carl Sagan wisely said, "The Earth is a very small stage in a vast cosmic arena." It is now our responsibility to ensure that this small stage, and the space surrounding it, remains safe and sustainable for future generations. The burden of managing space junk no longer lies with space agencies alone, but with humanity as a whole, as we strive to protect the very skies we look up to in awe.
Comments