Issues in Space
Space exploration today comes with a host of complex issues, many of which have implications for sustainability, on Earth and in orbit. Space sustainability involves maintaining space as a shared resource, which is increasingly threatened by space debris—defunct satellites and fragments that pose collision risks. These risks not only endanger active satellites but also limit future missions.
The use of space technology has been pivotal in weather forecasting and monitoring natural disasters, yet its limitations include the vulnerability of satellites to cosmic weather events, such as solar flares. Additionally, as we expand our use of space, the challenge of managing resources responsibly becomes critical.
Addressing these interconnected concerns is vital to ensure the safe and responsible utilization of space, now and for future generations.
Space Sustainability with Astroscale
Viasat’s policy
Safety at the forefront
When it comes to preventing issues in space, having policies that ensure space safety, equity, and sustainability are at the forefront of Viasat’s priorities.
Policies like these are essential when it comes to ensuring responsible and effective operations in such a rapidly growing industry. To break it down further…
Viasat’s space safety policy focuses primarily on reducing in-orbit collisions and managing any runaway debris.
Viasat's space equity policy ensures fair access to resources and technology, promoting transparency and equal collaboration among all countries.
Viasat's space sustainability policy centers on implementing regulations to ensure minimal impact on the environment and climate change.
“Viasat believes there is a way to ensure safe, sustainable, and equitable access to space for all. We are committed to being a responsible space technology company. In addition to meeting and exceeding critical space safety measures, we are working with a broad range of policymakers and industry leaders to promote rules that allow many operators to participate in an orderly fashion in the space economy for generations to come.”
Space debris
Space debris, or space “junk”, is exactly what you might expect—waste made by humans left in space that no longer serves a useful purpose. This could be defunct satellites, fragments from past rocket launches, or remnants of spacecraft. These objects float around Earth in low and high orbits, where they pose a hazard to operational satellites and future missions.
How much is there?
The bad news is, the amount of space debris is growing at an alarming rate. There are millions of pieces of space debris in orbit at this very moment.
While more than 21,000 of these are larger than ten centimeters, the vast majority are smaller and harder to track, making them even more dangerous.
Why has the amount increased over time?
The increase in space debris is largely down to two factors—collisions and the sheer number of satellites. Collisions between satellites, or between satellites and small debris, create thousands of new fragments that can then collide with other objects.
This leads to a dangerous domino effect called the “Kessler syndrome”. Additionally, as the global demand for satellite technology grows, we are launching more and more satellites each year, increasing the amount of defunct equipment left in our atmosphere.
What can be done about it?
Tackling an issue like space debris requires innovative solutions, many of which are in development. “Active debris removal” methods, using satellites with robotic arms or nets, could be used to capture larger objects. Magnetic and electrical forces could also be used to “sweep” debris out of orbit.
But, one of the most promising solutions is to leverage Earth’s atmosphere as a natural disposal system. In practice, this would mean objects in low Earth orbit can be deliberately nudged to lower altitudes, where they encounter the thicker part of the atmosphere and disintegrate, due to frictional heating. This controlled “reentry” effectively burns up the debris, reducing the risk of future collisions.
Space technology and its limitations
Space technology has revolutionized our understanding of the universe, offering vast potential. But, it also faces major limitations that hinder its growth. Let’s explore three key challenges: cost, resources, and reliability.
The cost
Space missions are notoriously expensive. Every aspect carries a price tag, from design and engineering to launch and mission support. Considering all this, launching a satellite or rover can cost billions.
This financial barrier limits the pace at which new technologies can be developed and deployed, slowing down the potential for innovative space technologies.
Resources
Space exploration requires the highest quality resources, from specialized metals to lightweight composites. Materials must withstand extreme conditions, from temperatures to radiation to the wear of space travel.
Put simply, they need to be the best of the best. Not only this, but many of these materials, like rare earth metals used in advanced electronics, are limited on Earth. Their extraction and refinement are both costly and environmentally damaging, restricting access.
Reliability
In terms of reliability, space technology is up there! Satellites orbit the Earth for years, providing critical data and services with remarkable precision. That said… even cutting-edge technology has limitations! Spacecraft face pretty harsh conditions for one, including extreme temperatures, radiation, and micrometeoroids, which can often cause malfunctions.
Meanwhile, growing space debris increases collision risks, while finite fuel supplies limit satellite lifespans. Despite these challenges, continuous innovation is pushing the boundaries of durability, making space technology more robust and adaptive than ever before.
