What is Space Junk ? Discuss the challenges posed by increased space junk and the potential risk…

Question

What is Space Junk ? Discuss the challenges posed by increased space junk and the potential risk associated with it. What do you know about Project NETRA ?

Ghissu Editorial · Accepted Answer

Space junk is defunct human-made objects in orbit, such as dead satellites, spent rocket stages and collision fragments, and over 34,000 trackable pieces moving at about 29,000 km/h threaten satellites and clog useful orbits. Project NETRA is ISRO's indigenous space situational awareness system that tracks debris and issues collision warnings.

**Introduction**

Space junk is non-functional human-made debris in orbit, such as defunct satellites, spent rocket stages and collision fragments. The surge in space activities has escalated these concerns, threatening India’s satellite operations and strategic interests, especially from ==ISRO’s Sriharikota launch centre==. Protecting these assets is crucial for uninterrupted communication, navigation, and earth observation services relied upon by millions.

**Institutional Framework**

1. **ISRO’s Indigenous Tracking**: ISRO’s Multi Object Tracking Radar at ==Sriharikota== and optical telescopes at Mount Abu and Ponmudi track debris ≥30 cm, improving India’s space situational awareness. Under ==Project NETRA==, India's indigenous Space Situational Awareness system, these facilities give real-time tracking and collision warnings, reducing dependence on foreign data.

**Challenges and Risks**

3. **Collision Hazards**: With 34,000+ debris pieces >10 cm moving at 29,000 km/h, collisions threaten satellites in ==India’s Low Earth Orbit⟦1⟧==, risking communication and navigation services. Even small fragments can cause catastrophic damage due to high velocities.

4. **Orbital Congestion and Economic Impact**: Debris can persist for decades to millennia, congesting orbits and risking satellite loss, which impacts India’s economy and national security amid increasing satellite launches. Loss of satellites disrupts critical sectors like finance, health, and governance.

**Way Forward**

5. **Expand SSA Infrastructure**: Enhancing NETRA with advanced radars at ==Sriharikota and Ponmudi== is essential to track smaller debris effectively. Additionally, fostering collaborations with academic institutions can boost innovation in debris mitigation technologies.

6. **International Cooperation and Policy**: India must lead in advocating binding global debris mitigation norms and promote transparency through forums like IADC and UNCOPUOS. Coordinated global action is vital to address the “tragedy of the commons” in space.

**Conclusion**

Robust SSA capabilities and global collaboration are key for India to mitigate space junk risks and sustain its space ambitions. Strengthening indigenous systems like NETRA and engaging internationally will safeguard India’s growing space assets.

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