Russian space tests litter space

The recent tests of a Russian rocket that destroyed a defunct satellite highlight the growing hazard of space debris to companies like SpaceX and Boeing.

Anti-satellite missiles crushed the Russian spacecraft into at least 1,500 pieces, resulting in a swath of debris orbiting the Earth at speeds of up to 17,000 miles per hour.

Russian anti-satellite tests exacerbate the situation

Russian anti-satellite experiments are increasing the amount of debris in space due to failing satellites, missing rocket boosters, and weapons testing, all while tech entrepreneurs and defense companies have expressed intentions to establish satellite constellations.

Worryingly, small surveillance and communications satellites are being launched into low Earth orbit. Elon Musk, CEO of Space Exploration Technologies Corp., has already launched over 1,700 Starlink satellites into orbit and plans to launch an additional 30,000 to allow broadband Internet access from space.

“Right now, humans’ use of space is undergoing a significant shift.” “Orbital junk is causing more and more satellite damage, and in some cases, satellite annihilation,” said Harvard Research Institute astronomer Jonathan McDowell.

Scientists, according to McDowell, are seeking to eradicate space debris by using techniques such as magnetic plates and harpoons, which may eventually remove larger particles.