The Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced at the annual meeting of the Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC) that they aim to conduct debris-free space missions by 2030.
About Space Debris:
- Space debris comprises man-made objects orbiting Earth that are no longer in use.
- These include defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, and fragments from various incidents.
- These objects may pose risks either by re-entering the Earth’s atmosphere or staying in orbit.
Threats of Space Debris
- Spacecraft Damage: Collisions with debris can disable operational spacecraft and damage essential components.
- Marine Pollution: Debris that falls into oceans can harm marine life and contribute to environmental pollution.
- Kessler Syndrome: This refers to a scenario where uncontrolled debris growth triggers a cascade of collisions, significantly worsening the debris issue.
- Orbital Slot Shortages: The accumulation of debris can limit the number of available slots for future space missions, posing a challenge for new satellites.
Strategies for Mitigating Space Debris
- Protect Space Assets: It is crucial to ensure the functionality and safety of satellites and other space missions.
- Prevent Earthly Risks: Steps are necessary to minimize the danger of debris impacting the Earth’s surface.
- Preserve Orbital Environment: Maintaining clear orbits is essential for both current and future space activities.
- Enhance Tracking: Improving the accuracy of space object tracking is vital for predicting and avoiding potential collisions.
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