Threats from Orbiting Space Junk
Envisat Still Orbits Dead
Europe’s defunct Envisat satellite weighs 8 tons and continues orbiting Earth, posing long-term risks to other spacecraft and satellites.
China’s ASAT Debris Cloud
In 2007, China destroyed its own satellite, creating over 3,000 sharp debris pieces still flying through low Earth orbit at deadly speeds.
Russia’s Kosmos Wreckage
Russia`s 2021 anti-satellite test generated thousands of fast-moving fragments, raising collision risk for all orbital missions today.
Long March Rocket Leftovers
China`s Long March 5B rocket cores reenter Earth`s atmosphere without control, leaving space debris behind and causing global concern.
Iridium vs Kosmos Crash
A 2009 satellite collision between Iridium 33 and Kosmos 2251 added over 2,000 debris fragments to the already-crowded orbital zone.
Spy Satellite USA-193 Debris
The destroyed USA-193 satellite’s remains still orbit Earth, contributing to the massive pileup of potentially hazardous space junk.
Even Paint Can Destroy
Tiny objects like paint flecks or screws may seem harmless, but in orbit, they travel fast enough to pierce spacecraft and endanger missions.
Jewelry Made From Meteorites