Space debris in Earth’s orbit has reached an all-time high, posing a significant threat to operational spacecraft and satellites. The problem is exacerbated by the growing number of scheduled satellite launches, which could lead to increased collisions and further space debris creation.
Kessler syndrome, a phenomenon predicted by NASA scientist Donald J. Kessler in 1978, warns that when the density of objects in low Earth orbit (LEO) reaches a critical level, it can trigger an escalating space debris population, leading to more collisions and additional debris. This could have catastrophic consequences, jeopardizing all existing satellites and filling orbits with high-velocity debris.
The Kessler syndrome poses a threat to various technologies that rely on satellites, including telecommunication services, navigation systems, and weather forecasting. It could also limit space exploration activities, making it challenging to launch and navigate spacecraft through the debris field.
To mitigate this issue, measures have been introduced, such as requiring satellites in LEO to de-orbit within five years of their mission. The European Space Agency (ESA) has also reduced the maximum time spent in LEO for its new missions from 25 to five years. Implementing controlled reentry procedures or relocation to graveyard orbits that avoid active satellite paths is critical.
Internationally, efforts like the ESA’s Clean Space initiative and the Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC) are focused on advocating and facilitating global cooperation on space debris issues. Technologies such as capture nets and harpoons are being developed to actively remove existing large debris from orbit.
SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet constellation, which has launched almost 7,000 satellites, is a prime example of the growing concern. However, SpaceX has implemented measures to mitigate space debris risks, including designing the spacecraft to autonomously avoid collisions using onboard propulsion and tracking data.
Source: https://www.newsweek.com/kessler-syndrome-space-elon-musk-spacex-satellites-warning-2006863