A recent explosion of SpaceX’s Starship megarocket at an altitude of around 90 miles released significant amounts of metallic dust into the upper layers of Earth’s atmosphere, according to estimates by University College London atmospheric chemistry researcher Connor Barker.
The explosion is believed to have generated 45.5 metric tons of metal oxides and 40 metric tons of nitrogen oxides, with the latter being particularly concerning due to its potential to damage the ozone layer. However, it is worth noting that these estimates are preliminary and may not accurately reflect the true environmental impact of the accident.
Barker’s estimate suggests that the amount of metallic air pollution generated by the Starship explosion equals that produced by one-third of meteorite material burning up in Earth’s atmosphere every year. This is a significant concern, as the increasing number of satellites and rocket launches has been linked to rising levels of pollutants in the mesosphere and upper stratosphere.
The use of stainless steel instead of aluminum in the Starship’s design may have reduced the impact of the explosion, but it is essential to consider the broader implications of this trend. As the frequency of satellite re-entries increases, so does the amount of alumina released into the atmosphere, which can damage the ozone layer and alter Earth’s climate.
While some experts argue that the focus on a single spacecraft accident may be misplaced, others emphasize the need for critical reporting on the environmental implications of space exploration. It is crucial to consider the potential consequences of repeated exposure to pollutants in the upper atmosphere, particularly when compared to the naturally occurring pollutants from meteorites and asteroids.
The Starship explosion serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible space exploration and the need for ongoing monitoring and research into its environmental impact.
Source: https://www.space.com/space-exploration/how-much-did-spacexs-starship-flight-7-explosion-pollute-the-atmosphere