Orbital Debris Management
Orbital debris management refers to the strategies and practices aimed at reducing and controlling the amount of space junk in Earth's orbit. This debris includes defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, and fragments from collisions or disintegration. Effective management is crucial to ensure the safety of operational spacecraft and the International Space Station (ISS).
To tackle the issue, various methods are being explored, such as active debris removal, which involves capturing and deorbiting large pieces of debris. Additionally, guidelines for satellite design and end-of-life disposal are being developed to minimize future debris generation. Collaboration among space agencies and private companies is essential for successful orbital debris management.