Every year, numerous satellites finish their missions and begin their descent toward Earth, burning up in the atmosphere. This process releases harmful chemicals that can damage the ozone layer.
Traditionally, satellites are built with a concept called “Design for Demise,” aimed at ensuring they break apart during reentry. While this helps minimize space junk, the increasing number of satellites being launched is raising environmental concerns.
Researchers from MaiaSpace, a company under ArianeGroup, are challenging this approach. They promote a “design for non-demise” strategy, which they believe could protect the atmosphere better.
In a recent study, MaiaSpace team members Antoinette Ott and Christophe Bonnal argue that a new end-of-life plan for satellites could lessen the environmental impact. However, this strategy poses its own risks, notably the potential for debris to fall back to Earth. The solution lies in carefully weighing the dangers of each approach.
Reentering satellites contribute to pollution, particularly concerning the ozone layer, which shields the Earth from harmful UV radiation. When satellites incinerate upon reentry, they release small particles of aluminum oxide. These particles can cause reactions that lead to ozone depletion.
A 2024 study revealed that a standard 550-pound (250-kilogram) satellite, made up of about 30% aluminum, produces around 66 pounds (30 kilograms) of aluminum oxide nanoparticles during reentry. This escalating issue has led to an eightfold increase in harmful oxides in the Earth’s atmosphere over just six years, as more satellites reenter.
The suggested non-demise strategy would involve constructing satellites designed to survive the intense heat of reentry. The researchers propose that these satellites could execute a controlled descent, minimizing the risk of debris falling on populated areas.
Adopting this approach may lead to higher costs for satellite operators. They’d need to build heavier satellites capable of withstanding reentry and possibly invest in propulsion systems to ensure the satellites safely land in remote ocean areas, away from people.
“Space object design now faces a critical choice: should a craft be engineered to burn up completely, risking some debris, or should it prioritize reducing emissions into the atmosphere for long-term environmental safety?” the researchers pondered in their study.
This debate captures an ongoing concern about space activities and their environmental impact. With more satellites planned for the future, balancing operational efficiency and ecological responsibility is more important than ever.
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