Climate Change Threatens Future of Satellites in Earth's Orbit
A new MIT study reveals climate change will significantly reduce satellite space, increasing orbital debris by minimizing atmospheric drag.
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Climate change is already causing all sorts of problems on Earth, but soon it will be making a mess in orbit around the planet too, a new study finds.
Study says climate change will even make Earth’s orbit a mess
Boston Herald·1M·Mostly ReliableThis source is generally reliable but sometimes includes opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.Leans RightThis outlet slightly leans right.Climate change is already causing all sorts of problems on Earth, but soon it will be making a mess in orbit around the planet too, a new study finds.
Study says climate change will even make Earth's orbit a mess
Associated Press·1M·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.CenterThis outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
Climate change is already causing all sorts of problems on Earth, but soon it will be making a mess in orbit around the planet too, a new study finds.
Study Says Climate Change Will Even Make Earth's Orbit a Mess
Newsmax·1M·Mixed ReliableThis source has a mixed track record—sometimes accurate but also prone to bias, sensationalism, or incomplete reporting.RightThis outlet favors right-wing views.
Summary
MIT researchers warn that climate change will drastically reduce space availability for satellites in low Earth orbit by as much as 82% by the century's end. The cooling of the upper atmosphere results in lower density, diminishing drag that naturally helps clean orbital debris. Currently, millions of debris pieces in orbit, including remnants of past satellite collisions, threaten active satellites, which serve critical functions such as communication and weather monitoring. Experts emphasize the significance of addressing climate impacts on space to maintain orbital sustainability.
Perspectives
Climate change will significantly impact satellite operations in low Earth orbit, potentially reducing available space by 33% to 82% by the century's end based on carbon emissions levels.
The cooling of the upper atmosphere due to greenhouse gases is expected to alter the dynamics of orbital debris, making it harder for natural processes to remove space junk, thus increasing risk for operational satellites.
The findings highlight the urgent need for better stewardship of orbital space as engagement in space activities expands, emphasizing that space debris management must be prioritized.