Tag

Satellite Debris

All articles tagged with #satellite debris

60-Meter Asteroid Could Slam the Moon in 2032, Opening a Rare Lunar Science Window
space20 days ago

60-Meter Asteroid Could Slam the Moon in 2032, Opening a Rare Lunar Science Window

Asteroid 2024 YR4, about 60 meters wide, could strike the Moon in December 2032 with roughly a 4.3% probability, releasing energy comparable to 6.5 million tons of TNT and creating a ~1-km crater visible from Earth. The impact could trigger Moonquakes and reveal subsurface details, while lunar debris might reach Earth’s orbit and threaten satellites, prompting a debate between potential deflection (as demonstrated by NASA’s DART mission) and pursuing scientific observations of the event.

Countdown to Crisis: The Urgent Need to Address Low Earth Orbit Congestion
science-and-technology2 months ago

Countdown to Crisis: The Urgent Need to Address Low Earth Orbit Congestion

A new study warns that the increasing density of satellite mega-constellations in Low Earth Orbit creates a fragile system at risk of catastrophic collision, especially during solar storms, with potential for a rapid cascade of debris and loss of space access within days if control is lost. The paper emphasizes the urgent need for better management and risk assessment to prevent a future space debris catastrophe.

Ancient Satellite Sends Unexpected Radio Signal, Baffling Scientists
science8 months ago

Ancient Satellite Sends Unexpected Radio Signal, Baffling Scientists

Astronomers in Australia detected a powerful radio signal near Earth, initially thought to be from an astronomical source, but later identified as likely originating from static electricity buildup and discharge on an old, dead satellite (Relay 2) launched in 1964, highlighting challenges posed by space debris and the need for careful analysis to distinguish man-made signals from cosmic phenomena.

Solar Storms Cause Musk's Satellites to Reenter Earth's Atmosphere
science-and-technology9 months ago

Solar Storms Cause Musk's Satellites to Reenter Earth's Atmosphere

Research indicates that increased solar activity shortens the lifespan of SpaceX's Starlink satellites and may cause them to reenter Earth's atmosphere at higher velocities, potentially increasing debris risks. The study highlights the impact of geomagnetic storms on satellite orbit and reentry, emphasizing the growing challenges of managing the increasing number of satellites in Earth's orbit.

"ESA's Simulation of Satellite Reaction Wheel Melting During Orbital Re-Entry"
space-technology1 year ago

"ESA's Simulation of Satellite Reaction Wheel Melting During Orbital Re-Entry"

Satellites re-entering Earth's atmosphere pose a potential hazard due to heavy components like reaction wheels surviving the descent. The ESA is working on designing reaction wheels that will break up during re-entry to reduce the risk of striking Earth. Efforts also include the Design for Demise program to comply with Space Debris Mitigation requirements, as well as plans for active debris removal to clear congested Low Earth Orbit.

SpaceX disputes FAA's concerns over Starlink satellite debris endangering public
spacetechnology2 years ago

SpaceX disputes FAA's concerns over Starlink satellite debris endangering public

SpaceX has disputed a report by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that claimed there is a risk of debris from its Starlink satellites falling to Earth. SpaceX alleges that the FAA's analysis is flawed and based on outdated information, arguing that its satellites are designed to burn up completely upon reentry. The FAA report, which commissioned an analysis from Aerospace Corporation, suggested a risk of falling debris from Starlink and potential harm to aircraft. SpaceX has requested that the FAA correct its report to Congress.

defense2 years ago

Japan on High Alert for North Korean Satellite Debris

Japan's defense chief has ordered troops to activate missile interceptors and prepare to shoot down fragments from a North Korean military spy satellite that may fall on Japanese territory. North Korea has test-fired about 100 missiles since early last year, and last week, it test-launched a solid-fueled intercontinental ballistic missile for the first time. Japan is making necessary preparations because of the possibility of issuing an order to destroy ballistic missiles and other objects.