Space Environmentalism"Researchers project that active #satellites could skyrocket to 1,00,000 before stabilising, a threshold considered the 'carrying capacity' of the #LEO. This limit, where collision risks become significant, could be reached by 2050 at current launch rates. ... Scientists are urging a slowdown in launches until global regulations can address these issues.”
Dr. John Barentine FRAS"'It’s stuff between one centimeter and 10 that we’re really worried about because we can’t see that stuff. I’m worried about astronauts. They’re exposed when they’re doing their spacewalks, and a piece of debris that size can go right through them.'"
https://www.independent.co.uk/space/satellite-wars-space-exploration-research-b2742463.html
#Space #SpaceEnvironment #OrbitalCrowding #SpaceDebris #KesslerSyndrome
"During the conference launch, Joanne Wheeler, Director of ESSI, highlighted a crucial yet often overlooked aspect, namely: 'Space is part of our Earth’s ecosystem – our home,' and 'What we do in space is an extension of our life on Earth.'"
https://www.aerosociety.com/news/protecting-a-global-space-resource/
#Space #SpaceSustainability #SpaceEnvironment #SpaceEnvironmentalism #SpaceDebris #OrbitalCrowding
Protecting a global space resource - Royal Aeronautical Society
On 29 January, the Earth & Space Sustainability Initiative partnered with the RAeS to host its first conference of the year. RAeS Aerospace Research Executive, KEERTHI GOPALAKRISHNAN, reports from No.4 Hamilton Place.
And at least a little good news about space.
Voluntary actions like this, implemented consistently, may be the only option for avoiding impending catastrophe in LEO.
https://phys.org/news/2024-05-twelve-countries-debris-charter.html
#Space #SpaceSustainability #ZeroDebrisCharter #SpaceDebris #OrbitalCrowding
Twelve countries sign the Zero Debris Charter
Twelve nations have signed the Zero Debris Charter at the ESA/EU Space Council today, solidifying their commitment to the long-term sustainability of human activities in Earth orbit. In addition to the 12 countries, the European Space Agency also signed the Zero Debris Charter as an International Organization (IGO).
"In 2023, space insurers collected approximately $557 million in premiums, but paid out $995 million in insurance claims, resulting in a record-breaking net loss of $438 million."
https://spacenews.com/orbital-congestion-reaching-critical-levels-warns-new-report/
