The Problem of Space Debris

All images: NASA, ESA

What is Space Debris?

Space debris, or space junk, is artificial material that is orbiting Earth but is no longer functional. Most of the debris is in low Earth orbit (LEO). The debris can be as large as a rocket or as small as a chip.

Most Space Debris Moving ‘Very Fast’

According to NASA, most space debris is moving very fast and can reach speeds of 18,000 miles per hour, almost seven times faster than a bullet.

The Safety Risks

Due to the high speed and volume of debris in LEO, current and future space-based services, explorations, and operations pose a safety risk to people and property in space and on Earth, NASA says.

No International Laws to Clean Up the Junk

There are currently no international laws to clean up space debris in the LEO. “LEO is now viewed as the World’s largest garbage dump, and it’s expensive to remove space debris from LEO because the problem of space junk is huge — there are close to 6,000 tonnes of materials in low Earth orbit,” NASA says.