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Artwork of a satellite destroying space junk
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Artwork of a satellite destroying space junk
Space junk demolition. Conceptual artwork of a satellite using a laser to destroy space junk. Space junk is an assortment of used rocket stages, old, dead hardware and other orbiting detritus which has been left in orbit by the hundreds of space missions since the 1950s. Destroying the junk by laser is just one idea about how to clear it. It has been estimated that there are over 20, 000 man-made objects in orbit, of which only a tiny minority are operational satellites. These objects pose a serious threat to further missions, as a collision with a delicate piece of space hardware could damage it severely. A collision with an inhabited craft could even prove fatal
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6457873
© JULIAN BAUM/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Debris Junk Laser Satellite Space Debris Space Junk
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a powerful artwork depicting the urgent need to tackle the growing menace of space junk. In this conceptual piece, a satellite takes on the role of a hero, armed with a laser beam to demolish orbiting debris. The artist's vision highlights the critical issue of space clutter caused by discarded rocket stages, defunct hardware, and other remnants left behind from countless space missions since the 1950s. With an estimated count exceeding 20,000 man-made objects in orbit, it becomes evident that only a fraction serve any operational purpose as satellites. This surplus poses an imminent threat to future missions as even minor collisions could inflict severe damage upon delicate spacecraft or potentially prove fatal for inhabited crafts. The concept of employing lasers to eliminate space junk is just one proposed solution among many others being explored. As scientists and engineers grapple with this challenge, it is crucial to find effective methods for clearing our celestial pathways from these hazardous obstacles. This thought-provoking image serves as a reminder that safeguarding our advancements in outer space requires innovative strategies and collective action. It prompts us to contemplate how we can preserve the integrity of future missions while ensuring human exploration continues unhindered by floating debris.
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