Concerns Over Space Debris Growth and Cleanup Solutions

Concerns over space debris are escalating as the number of satellites and debris in Earth's orbit continues to rise. Recent incidents, such as the damage to the Shenzhou-20 capsule caused by space debris, underscore the risks involved.

According to Phys.org, the European Space Agency estimates over 15,100 tonnes of material in space, including 1.2 million objects ranging from 1 to 10 centimeters and approximately 140 million smaller fragments.

These objects travel at speeds of 7.6 kilometers per second, posing a significant risk to operational satellites and future missions. Cleaning up space debris is technologically challenging and costly, with no current incentives for nations or private companies to engage in cleanup efforts.

A study published in the Journal of Spacecraft and Rockets suggests that creating commercial opportunities for private entities could incentivize space debris removal. This includes scenarios like controlled reentry and recycling in space, but without binding international regulations, the problem will likely worsen, leading to a cosmic free-for-all.

The lack of global agreements on space debris complicates the issue further. As the situation develops, international cooperation and regulations will be crucial to prevent catastrophic incidents in orbit.