Space scrap: Bonn discusses solutions for the threat of our orbits

Space scrap: Bonn discusses solutions for the threat of our orbits

space scrap is not just a danger to satellites

The threat from space scrap is an increasingly urgent problem. Experts not only warn of the risks they represent for satellites and space, but also of the far -reaching effects on the infrastructure on earth. At a current conference in Bonn, scientists from more than 30 countries discussed strategies to cope with this global problem.

space scrap includes a variety of objects that are located in the flash of earth and are no longer functional. This includes, for example, switched off satellites, outdated rocket upper levels and objects that were lost in external operations in the International Space Station (ISS). The majority of space waste, however, consists of rubble that have arisen from collisions and explosions. Since the first satellite Sputnik in 1957, an enormous amount of garbage has accumulated, with estimates of around 40,000 catalogized objects in the orbit.

The Kessler syndrome and its consequences

A central topic in the discussion is the so-called Kessler syndrome, which was described by a NASA employee in 1978. This scenario describes a chain reaction that can be triggered by collisions in space, which could ultimately lead to parts of the earth's bodies become unusable. This would have serious effects on communication and navigation on earth as well as on manned space travel. Scientists warn that the likelihood of such collisions increases due to the increasing density of objects in orbit and some have already taken place, such as the collision between an American and a Russian satellite in 2009.

The effects on earth

The dangers of space scrap are not only limited to the space. Particles that are released in the earth's atmosphere when burning satellites could influence the heat balance of the atmosphere and possibly drive global climate change. Metal dust made of satellites in particular could get into the stratosphere and have harmful effects on the ozone layer.

need for action is high

The need for action to reduce space waste is large. Experts develop strategies to minimize new garbage and to eliminate existing debris. This includes the idea of ​​bringing back used satellites in a controlled manner or removing special techniques such as a space waste disposal from overloaded regions. Despite these challenges, the satellite population is expected to increase to over 60,000 by 2030, which further underlines the need for systematic solutions.