NASA is actively engaged in addressing the challenges posed by space debris, also known as space junk, in Earth's orbit. Here are some of the strategies and initiatives NASA is pursuing:
Tracking and Monitoring: NASA closely tracks space debris using various ground-based and space-based sensors. The agency collaborates with other space agencies, such as the U.S. Department of Defense, to maintain a comprehensive catalog of space debris and predict potential collisions with operational spacecraft.
Mitigation Measures: NASA promotes the implementation of mitigation measures to prevent the creation of new space debris. This includes designing satellites and spacecraft to be less prone to creating debris upon their retirement, such as by venting remaining propellant or deploying their solar panels to reduce their potential for collisions.
Active Debris Removal (ADR): NASA is researching and developing technologies for actively removing space debris from orbit. One concept under consideration is the use of robotic spacecraft equipped with nets, harpoons, or robotic arms to capture and deorbit large debris objects. NASA has also supported studies on other ADR techniques like lasers and ion beams.
International Collaboration: NASA collaborates with international partners, including space agencies and organizations from other countries, to address the global challenge of space debris. Joint research, sharing of data, and coordination of efforts help advance the understanding and mitigation of space debris on a global scale.
Space Traffic Management: NASA is actively involved in the development of space traffic management (STM) policies and regulations. STM aims to ensure the safe and responsible use of space by coordinating spacecraft operations and mitigating collision risks, including addressing the challenges posed by space debris.
It's important to note that addressing the issue of space debris is a complex and ongoing effort that requires collaboration among multiple stakeholders worldwide, including space agencies, commercial entities, and regulatory bodies.