Space debris poses a significant threat to space travel as thousands of defunct satellites and fragments circle the Earth at high speeds. According to the European Space Agency, 13,230 satellites remain in orbit, but only 10,200 still function. This phenomenon, known as Kessler Syndrome, is a chain reaction caused by collisions between orbiting debris, making parts of the Earth’s orbit unusable for space travel.
Named after NASA scientist Donald Kessler, who identified the threat in 1978, Kessler Syndrome was first demonstrated in 2009 when two satellites collided over Siberia, creating new debris. The accumulation of defunct satellites, rocket boosters, and lost astronaut tools has created a growing hazard above Earth.
The situation is worsened by the increasing use of space without adequate technology to prevent risks. Holger Krag, ESA’s head of Space Safety, stated that the dramatically increased use of space is outpacing efforts to address the hazards. However, several space agencies are taking concrete actions to mitigate the issue. The European Space Agency has adopted the Zero Debris Charter, aiming to nearly eliminate space junk by 2030.
NASA and other organizations worldwide are also working to reduce space debris through various initiatives. With the current trajectory, if nothing changes, Kessler Syndrome could have devastating consequences for Earth’s orbit, making it increasingly difficult and expensive for space travel.
Source: https://www.livenowfox.com/news/space-junk-risks-2025