Space Debris: A Silent Threat to Earth's Atmosphere

A new study reveals that the Earth's upper atmosphere is being contaminated by metal pollution from space junk that burns up upon reentry. This unexpected level of contamination, which is expected to increase in the future, could have unknown effects on our planet's atmosphere. Researchers discovered high levels of metallic elements, including rare earth metals used in technological components, in the stratosphere. The main source of pollution is believed to be rocket boosters ejected by rockets and falling satellites. The study highlights the need to understand the implications of these metals in the atmosphere.