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Climate Change Is Making Space More Hazardous for Satellites
- Greenhouse gas emissions are affecting the thermosphere, which extends into low Earth orbit where satellites operate.
- CO2 in the upper atmosphere radiates heat away, causing the thermosphere to cool and contract, impacting satellite operations.
- This long-term shift in the thermosphere due to greenhouse gas emissions affects atmospheric density and space debris.
- Reduced atmospheric drag because of thermosphere contraction increases the risk of collisions and creates more space debris.
- The rapid increase in satellite numbers, particularly with megaconstellations like SpaceX's Starlink, heightens collision risks.
- MIT study suggests that greenhouse gas-induced atmospheric changes could reduce safe satellite operation by 50-66% by 2100.
- Runaway collisions known as the Kessler syndrome could render space unusable if emissions continue to rise unchecked.
- Urgent need for sustainable space operations to prevent a crowded and hazardous space environment in the future.
- International efforts to regulate satellite deployment and limit emissions are crucial to ensure space sustainability.
- Research highlights the interconnectivity between Earth's climate and space sustainability, emphasizing the need to address greenhouse gas emissions.
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