Space Debris: A Growing Threat

Space debris continues to be a growing environmental problem. Accumulation of objects in Earth orbit has been increasing steadily since 1957 and threatens space systems through the possibility of collisions. Research studies at NASA, United States Space Command and the Air Force Phillips Laboratory have resulted in better ways to detect and catalog space debris. Initial results of these studies indicate specific hazards to spacecraft created by man-made debris remain relatively low. However, these hazards are growing and require international action to deal with this threatening reality of space debris. This paper will begin with what space debris is, giving an overview of the amount and type of debris there is currently in orbit. From this, a discussion of the evolving space debris threat, indicating the increasing danger since that first Russian launch. Finally, a look at what current studies have recommended be done in dealing with this threat. Since the inception of space flight and travel, we have been leaving behind a trail of debris. Now, as Space Shuttle missions become more frequent and construction of the Space Station begins, debris will continue to increase. Implementation of global action plans must start now before the loss of critical space systems occurs, but more importantly, before the loss of human life results from this debris.