Space debris or “space junk” is an issue catching the attention of scientists worldwide. The rapid increase in the amount of discarded artificial objects in orbit around the Earth demands immediate action for conservation and sustainable use of outer space. The United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space has issued guidelines to address this issue, but a comprehensive international treaty is yet to be adopted.
What is Space Debris?
Space debris refers to the wealth of artificial objects in orbit around the Earth that are no longer in use or have lost their functionality. These include non-functional spacecraft, abandoned launch vehicle stages, mission-related debris, and fragmentation debris.
The concern lies in the projected number of satellites orbiting Earth, which is expected to leap from the current 9,000 to 60,000 by 2030. NASA tracks about 27,000 pieces of space debris, but it is estimated that over 100 trillion untracked pieces exist, creating potential hazards. Currently, there are insufficient incentives for companies to clear orbits or incorporate de-orbiting functions in their satellites – functions that would return defunct satellites back to Earth.
Existing Initiatives to Curb Space Debris
Different initiatives have been launched globally to address the issue. In India, ISRO established the System for Safe and Sustainable Operations Management in 2022, designed to continually monitor objects posing collision threats. Additionally, ‘Project NETRA’ serves as an early warning system in space to detect debris and other hazards to Indian satellites.
Internationally, multiple bodies, including the Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee and the European Space Agency’s Clean Space Initiative, are focusing on solutions.
How Can Space Debris be Tackled?
There are several suggested strategies to mitigate the space debris problem. First on the list is the implementation of a space treaty with extended producer responsibility. This legally binding agreement would enforce the accountability of producers and users regarding their satellites and debris. It would ensure collective international legislation, possibly supported by fines and other incentives aimed at making countries and companies responsible for their actions in space.
Secondly, incentivisation could be a tool for change. Countries utilising Earth’s orbit should commit to global cooperation. Companies, on the other hand, should be motivated to clean up orbits and include de-orbiting functions in their satellites.
Another potential solution is the use of reusable launch vehicles. By opting for these over single-use rockets, the amount of new debris generated from launches could be significantly reduced.
Space debris poses a significant challenge to the sustainable use of outer space. The urgency to act is now to prevent further harm to our planet’s orbit. As we continue to reach for the stars, we must also remember our responsibility to protect and sustain the celestial sphere that makes it possible.
