Space Debris and Its Management

Space debris, also known as space junk, includes non-functional or discarded human-made objects orbiting Earth—such as defunct satellites, detached rocket parts, and fragments from past collisions. These objects remain in orbit and pose risks to active satellites and future space missions.

According to a 2016 estimate, nearly 2 crore (20 million) objects larger than 1 cm orbit Earth. This debris can damage satellites and spacecraft upon collision. As the number of space launches increases, managing space debris becomes more urgent. If not controlled, it may soon become difficult and dangerous to launch new spacecraft.

Current Status and Threats:

• Over 30,000 debris pieces are tracked (ESA, 2022).
• Nearly 200,000 objects measure between 1–10 cm; millions are smaller.
• Risks include damage to satellites, Kessler syndrome (chain reaction collisions), and danger to space stations like the ISS.
• Growing debris contributes to space pollution and international disputes over liability.

Causes of Space Debris:

• Frequent satellite launches, especially by private firms (e.g., SpaceX’s Starlink).
• Abandoned satellites that no longer function.
• Anti-satellite weapon tests that create large debris fields.
• Fragmentation is caused by explosions, collisions, or wear and tear in space.

International Efforts

• IADC (1993): coordinates global action on debris mitigation.
• COPUOS (1958): UN committee promoting safe space usage.
• Liability Convention (1972): Holds countries responsible for space object damage.
• Clean Space Initiative & ClearSpace-1 (ESA): Active debris removal missions.
• RemoveDEBRIS Project: Demonstrates capture tools like nets and harpoons.
• Outer Space Treaty (1967): Sets global space-use principles.

India’s Initiatives

• IS4OM (2022): Monitors and manages space traffic risks.
• Project NETRA: Tracks debris as small as 10 cm up to 3,400 km.
• Collision Avoidance Manoeuvres: ISRO performed 21 in 2022.
• ISRO SSA Centre (2020): Central hub for Indian space traffic management.
• Megha-Tropiques-1 (2023): First controlled deorbiting of an Indian satellite.

Measures Needed

• Improve global tracking systems and data sharing.
• Use reusable rockets to reduce waste.
• Develop active removal technologies like lasers and magnets.
• Enforce international guidelines on satellite disposal.
• Promote strong international cooperation to ensure safe future access to space.