Scientists have discovered that the thousands of satellites orbiting Earth are slowly damaging the atmosphere, and the problem could get even worse if urgent action isn’t taken.
what’s happening?
Recent research published in the journal Geophysical Research They found that aluminum oxide particles, which are left behind when old moons burn up, increased eightfold between 2016 and 2022.
The problem is expected to get worse as more satellites are launched. Interesting Engineering.
SpaceX’s Starlink fleet dominates the low-Earth orbit constellation, with about 6,000 satellites currently orbiting the planet, and the company has permission to launch another 12,000 and hopes to eventually reach 42,000.
Other companies, like Amazon, also plan to send out thousands of their own satellites.
Why is satellite debris a concern?
After about five years, the satellite will burn up in the atmosphere, leaving behind aluminum oxide particles that can linger for decades.
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“It’s only in the last few years that people have started to think that this might be a problem,” said Joseph Wang, a spaceflight researcher at the University of Southern California who contributed to the study.
Scientists say these particles destroy the ozone layer, which protects us from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. The oxides cause destructive chemical reactions but aren’t consumed in the process, meaning that as they slowly rain down on Earth, they continually damage the ozone layer.
Researchers estimate that the current pace of satellite launches could cause aluminum oxide in the atmosphere to increase by a staggering 646% above natural levels. This would significantly expand the existing hole in the ozone layer and expose us to more ultraviolet radiation, which increases the risk of skin cancer, eye damage, and other health problems.
What measures are being taken to deal with satellite debris?
The good news is that smart people are working hard on solutions.
NASA and other space agencies are developing guidelines for “responsible satellite disposal” to minimize air pollution. Some ideas include placing old satellites in higher “graveyard” orbits or using special materials that burn up completely upon re-entry into the atmosphere.
Companies are also looking at ways to extend the lifespan of satellites to reduce the need for replacements — Starlink satellites, for example, are currently designed to last 10 to 15 years instead of five.
The challenges are daunting, but these efforts show that innovative thinking can help protect our air – and you can do your part too. Small energy-saving actions add up to a big difference.
Advocating for better local and national policies can make a bigger difference than any individual action, but to reduce your carbon emissions, consider the following: Upgrade to LED bulbsAdjust the thermostat a few degrees Walking or cycling Avoid driving whenever possible. If we all become aware of our impact, we can help keep the planet safer and more natural.
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