Orbital Junkyard: How Humanity Risks Closing Its Path to Space

There are about 17,000 active satellites in Earth's orbit, but the space is also filled with a vast amount of orbital debris, including spent rocket stages, defunct spacecraft, and small fragments. Unlike large objects that can be tracked, small debris poses a serious threat due to its unpredictability. Experts from the European Space Agency (ESA) warn that the problem is worsening with the increase in new satellite constellations. Contrary to popular belief, debris does not always burn up quickly in the atmosphere; at certain altitudes, it can remain for centuries. The accumulation of debris creates the risk of the Kessler syndrome, which could render near-Earth space unusable. Experts emphasize the need for orbital cleanup strategies and a more responsible approach to launching new hardware to ensure that space remains accessible for future generations.