Overview

• Space debris, including defunct satellites and rocket fragments, is accumulating in Earth's low orbit, creating hazards for operational spacecraft and future missions.
• The Kessler Syndrome describes a theoretical chain reaction of collisions that could render Earth's orbit unsafe for satellites and space travel.
• Critical technologies reliant on satellites, such as GPS, telecommunications, and weather forecasting, face potential disruptions from increasing orbital debris.
• Efforts to mitigate risks include stricter de-orbiting regulations, collision avoidance technologies, and innovative debris removal strategies like drag sails and capture nets.
• Organizations like NASA and the European Space Agency are pushing for global cooperation and policies to curb the proliferation of space junk and protect Earth's orbital environment.