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Destroying Space Debris, One Round at a Time
Destroying Space Debris, One Round at a Time
"Orbital debris poses a significant threat to spacecraft and astronauts, necessitating careful monitoring and mitigation efforts to ensure safety and sustainability" - NASA Encyclopedia
The Growing Threat
The Growing Threat
NASA estimates there are over 9,000 metric tons of space debris orbiting Earth. These objects include defunct satellites, rocket fragments, and collision remnants, travel at speeds of up to 17,500 miles per hour. Thus, even small debris can cause catastrophic damage to active satellites and spacecraft.
Kessler Syndrome
Kessler Syndrome
Named after NASA scientist Donald J. Kessler, the Kessler Syndrome theorizes that if the amount of space debris continues to increase, collisions would trigger a cascading effect, rendering certain orbits unusable. NASA closely monitors this potential scenario to sustain long-term space activities.
Mitigation and Collaboration
Mitigation and Collaboration
NASA communicates globally with agencies such as the ESA to track and manage debris. Active debris removal technologies, such as robotic arms, lasers, nets, and more, are being tested to help the debris already in orbit.
Future Space Missions
Future Space Missions
The ISS performs maneuvers to dodge collisions at least twice a month. According to the FAS, with increased activity in space, debris is a growing threat to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) - the most accessible area of space.
What is DEBRIS WARS?
What is DEBRIS WARS?
A game designed to educate young aspiring astronauts and scientists on the dangers of space debris... while having fun! "DEBRIS WARS: the Satellite Awakens" is the first installment of our series, where we explore Active Debris Removal Technologies NASA scientists have proposed.
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