In a recent Bloomberg opinion piece, Tom Metcalfe suggests that a "cheap" solution to our growing space junk problem has been found. The proposed solution involves using a fleet of drones to attach inflatable balloons to the space debris, which would then cause them to fall back to Earth and burn up in the atmosphere. While the idea may seem straightforward and cost-effective, it raises some important questions about such a solution's long-term viability and effectiveness.
Firstly, it is important to note that space junk is a significant problem that needs urgent attention. With over 9,000 tons of debris orbiting the Earth, the potential dangers to functioning satellites, spacecraft, and human life are very real. Therefore, any proposed solution should be thoroughly evaluated for its efficacy, safety, and sustainability.
The proposed solution of using drones to attach inflatable balloons to space debris has potential benefits. Using drones allows for the targeted and precise placement of balloons, potentially reducing the risk of further collisions and fragmentation. The balloons would not add to the space debris, as they would eventually burn up upon re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere.
However, there are also some potential drawbacks to this solution. One concern is the sheer volume of space debris that must be targeted and collected. With an estimated 128 million pieces of space debris less than one centimeter in size, it is unclear how effective the proposed solution would be in mitigating the overall problem. Additionally, the use of drones raises questions about safety and regulation. With so many drones flying in space, there is a risk of collisions and interference with existing spacecraft and satellites. It is, therefore, important to consider how such a system would be managed and regulated.
Furthermore, the proposed solution does not address the root cause of the problem: the continued creation of space debris. With more satellites and spacecraft being launched into orbit every year, the amount of space debris will likely continue to increase. Therefore, any solution should focus on removing existing debris and preventing the creation of new debris.
While the proposed solution of using drones to attach inflatable balloons to space debris may have some potential benefits, the long-term effectiveness, safety, and sustainability of such a system should be thoroughly evaluated before implementation. Any solution to the space junk problem should also address the root cause of the problem and work towards preventing the creation of new debris.
Only then can we ensure the long-term health and safety of our increasingly crowded space environment.
Last week a hunk of space junk hurtled toward the International Space Station, putting the safety of astronauts and their orbiting outpost at risk. Fortunately, the cosmic hazard was detected early and an emergency maneuver rocketed the $150 billion station out of harm’s way. Such episodes, which burn gallons of valuable propellant, cost NASA and its partners an average $1 million per incident.
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