1. What is Space Debris?
Space debris, also called space junk, refers to defunct human-made objects orbiting Earth. These include old satellites, spent rocket stages, fragments from collisions, and discarded tools or parts.
2. Sources of Space Debris:
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Non-functioning satellites
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Rocket bodies left in orbit after launches
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Fragments from satellite collisions or explosions
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Debris released during spacecraft operations
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Tiny paint flecks and metal shards
3. Why is Space Debris a Problem?
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Space debris travels at extremely high speeds (up to 28,000 km/h), posing a serious collision risk to active satellites, spacecraft, and the International Space Station (ISS)
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Collisions can generate more debris, causing a chain reaction known as the Kessler Syndrome
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Threatens future space missions and the safety of astronauts
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Can damage or destroy expensive equipment
4. Current Situation:
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Millions of pieces of debris, ranging from large defunct satellites to tiny fragments, orbit Earth
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Only a few thousand objects are tracked regularly by space agencies
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Debris is most concentrated in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Geostationary Orbit (GEO)
5. Efforts to Manage Space Debris:
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Designing satellites to deorbit and burn up in the atmosphere after mission end
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Active debris removal concepts, including nets, harpoons, lasers, and robotic arms
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International guidelines to minimize debris generation
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Improved tracking and collision avoidance systems
6. Interesting Facts:
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The ISS performs occasional “debris avoidance maneuvers” to dodge dangerous objects
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Even tiny debris (1 cm) can cause significant damage due to high speeds
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Space agencies collaborate internationally to monitor and reduce debris risks