debris mitigation
Debris mitigation refers to the strategies and actions taken to reduce the amount of space debris orbiting Earth. Space debris includes defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, and fragments from collisions. These objects pose risks to operational satellites and the International Space Station, making debris mitigation essential for safe space activities.
Methods of debris mitigation include designing satellites to deorbit at the end of their missions, using technologies to capture or remove debris, and implementing guidelines for responsible satellite launches. Organizations like NASA and the European Space Agency actively promote these practices to ensure the long-term sustainability of space operations.