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Apollo mission space debris
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Apollo mission space debris
Space debris. Artwork of space debris returning to Earth after being discarded during an Apollo mission. This is a rocket stage, a fuel-containing section of a spacecraft that is discarded when the fuel is used up. Some of the stages from the early Apollo missions have attained orbits around the Sun. These orbits will cross Earths orbit, and one day their paths may pass close by each other, as seen here. Such space debris is a hazard to spacecraft and satellites, though the probability of an impact is very small, and Earth-orbiting debris is more of a problem. The Apollo rockets were used in the American missions to the Moon (lower left) in the 1960s and 1970s
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Media ID 6427337
© CHRIS BUTLER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Apollo Mission Booster Danger Dangerous Debris Discarded Globe Hazard Hazardous Lunar Moon Orbit Orbiting Satellite Space Junk Star Stars Us A World Battered
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This print captures the remnants of an Apollo mission, showcasing the space debris discarded during its journey. The artwork depicts a rocket stage, once filled with fuel and now abandoned as it orbits around the Sun. As Earth's orbit intersects with these paths, there is a possibility that their trajectories may cross paths in the future. While this space debris poses a potential hazard to spacecraft and satellites, the likelihood of an impact remains minimal. However, it serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by Earth-orbiting debris. The battered appearance of these discarded stages highlights their age and history, having played crucial roles in American missions to the Moon during the 1960s and 1970s. The image showcases our planet, Earth (lower left), against a backdrop of stars and celestial bodies. It emphasizes both our achievements in space exploration and the dangers we face from man-made objects lingering above us. This illustration serves as a testament to humanity's presence beyond our home planet while also raising awareness about responsible practices for managing space junk. Captured by Science Photo Library, this thought-provoking artwork invites viewers to contemplate mankind's relationship with outer space – reminding us that even amidst great accomplishments lie potential risks that must be addressed for future generations venturing into uncharted territories.
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