International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

Japan, India startups collaborate to tackle space debris

Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields
Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Mains level: Issues related to space debris;

Why in the News?

space startups from Japan and India announced a joint agreement to explore the use of laser-equipped satellites for removing debris from orbit, addressing the growing issue of orbital congestion.

What is Space Debris?

  • Space debris, often referred to as space junk, consists of non-functional spacecraft, spent rocket stages, and fragments from collisions or disintegration of satellites.
  • These objects orbit the Earth at high speeds, posing significant risks to operational satellites and manned missions.

What are laser-equipped satellites for removing debris from orbit?

  • Laser-equipped satellites utilize focused laser beams to target and vaporize small parts of space debris, effectively stopping its rotation and making it easier for servicing spacecraft to rendezvous with and de-orbit defunct satellites. T
  • Companies like Japan’s Orbital Lasers and India’s InspeCity are collaborating to explore business opportunities for these laser systems.
  • They plan to demonstrate this technology in space, with potential deployment on satellites after meeting regulatory requirements in their respective countries, indicating a growing interest in international partnerships to tackle the issue of space debris.

What are the concerns related to space debris?

  • Collision Risks: The increasing amount of space debris raises the likelihood of collisions with active satellites and spacecraft, which can lead to further debris generation in a cascading effect known as the Kessler Syndrome.
  • Operational Challenges: Space debris complicates satellite operations and can disrupt services such as telecommunications, weather forecasting, and global positioning systems.
  • Environmental Impact: The accumulation of debris in low Earth orbit (LEO) threatens the sustainability of space activities and could hinder future space exploration efforts.

What are the initiatives to tackle space debris globally?

  • International Collaboration: Organizations like the United Nations have called for urgent action to track and manage space debris, emphasizing the need for global cooperation.
  • Technological Innovations: Companies like Orbital Lasers are exploring innovative solutions such as using laser-equipped satellites to de-orbit defunct satellites and mitigate debris by vaporizing parts of their surfaces.
  • Regulatory Frameworks: Various countries are developing regulations to ensure responsible satellite launches and operations, including guidelines for end-of-life satellite disposal to minimize future debris creation.

What are the measures should be taken by Satellite? (Way forward)

  • Tracking and Monitoring: Satellites use onboard systems and ground-based tracking data to monitor the position of space debris and predict potential collision risks.
  • Avoidance Maneuvers: Satellites perform preemptive orbital adjustments or “collision avoidance manoeuvres” to shift their trajectory away from debris.
  • Shielding and Resilience: Some satellites are equipped with protective shielding to withstand minor debris impacts, minimizing potential damage in low-risk scenarios.

Mains PYQ:

Q What is India’s plan to have its own space station and how will it benefit our space programme? (UPSC IAS/2019)

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