This article sheds light on the rapid expansion of space activities and  has raised concerns about potential interference with climate monitoring systems. 

What is Orbital Debris?

• It includes defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, and fragments from collisions.
• Current Situation: Of the 19,590 satellites launched since 1957, 13,230 remain in orbit, with 10,200 still functional.
• Collision Risks: Debris travels at speeds of up to 29 km/hr, and even small fragments can severely damage operational satellites.
  • The increasing mass of debris (over 13,000 tonnes) poses significant threats to satellite missions and crewed space programs.
• Impact on Climate Monitoring:  Space junk interferes with radio signals and affects the collection of Earth-monitoring data, raising operational costs and risks.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

Environmental Impact of Space Activities

• Rocket Emissions: Rocket launches release carbon dioxide, black carbon, and water vapor into the atmosphere.
  • Black carbon, which absorbs sunlight 500 times more effectively than carbon dioxide, intensifies global warming.
• Ozone Layer Damage: Chlorine-based rocket propellants deplete the ozone layer, leading to increased UV radiation and disrupting atmospheric circulation.
• Satellite Ash: Satellites burning up in the atmosphere release metallic ash, which can harm the atmosphere and potentially impact the global climate.
• Satellite Manufacturing: Producing satellites requires energy-intensive processes and materials with significant carbon footprints.
• Space Mining Concerns: Future space mining activities could increase industrial emissions both on Earth and in space.

Challenges to Space Sustainability

• Lack of Regulations: Space activities are not covered under international agreements like the Paris Agreement, leaving emissions and debris unchecked.
• Overcrowded Low Earth Orbit (LEO): The growing number of satellites and debris could make LEO too congested, increasing costs and limiting accessibility.

Solutions for Sustainable Space Exploration’

• Reusable Rockets: Rockets like those by SpaceX and Blue Origin reduce manufacturing waste. However, they require heavier components, increasing fuel use.
• Cleaner Fuels: Switching to liquid hydrogen and biofuels can minimize emissions. However, current hydrogen production relies on non-renewable energy sources.
• Biodegradable Satellites: Designing satellites with materials that disintegrate naturally during re-entry can reduce debris, but durability and cost remain challenges.
• Debris Removal Technology: Robotic arms and laser systems show promise for removing debris but are currently expensive and lack clear legal frameworks.
• Global Traffic Monitoring: A system to track satellites and debris in real-time can reduce collisions but requires overcoming resistance to data-sharing and establishing a unified authority.

Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

The Way Forward

• Binding Agreements: Governments should establish emission limits and debris management standards through bodies like COPUOS.
• Financial Incentives: Subsidies, penalties, and rewards can motivate private players to adopt sustainable practices.
• Prioritize Green Technologies: Increased funding for clean fuels, biodegradable satellites, and debris removal systems is crucial.

The future of space exploration depends on balancing technological advancements with environmental responsibility. Immediate and collective action is essential to ensure space remains a shared, sustainable resource.

DOWNLOAD PDF