Space Junk Becomes Global Security Risk
The growing accumulation of space debris in Earth's orbit has escalated into a pressing global security concern. As of April 2025, the European Space Agency reports over 40,000 tracked artificial objects in orbit, with millions of smaller, untrackable fragments posing significant risks to satellites, spacecraft, and even aviation.
The Threat of Space Debris
Space debris, or "space junk," includes defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, and fragments from collisions or explosions. These objects travel at speeds exceeding 17,500 mph, making even small particles capable of causing catastrophic damage. The International Space Station (ISS) frequently maneuvers to avoid collisions, highlighting the immediate danger.
Recent Incidents and Risks
In January 2025, the explosion of SpaceX's Starship Flight 7 forced the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration to reroute air traffic due to falling debris. Such incidents underscore the dual threat to both space and terrestrial infrastructure. The Secure World Foundation's 2025 report warns of increasing counterspace capabilities, with 12 countries developing technologies that could exacerbate the debris problem.
Call for Global Cooperation
Experts urge coordinated international efforts to mitigate space debris. Proposed solutions include active debris removal, stricter regulations on satellite launches, and the development of sustainable space practices. The upcoming UNIDIR Outer Space Security Conference in September 2025 aims to foster dialogue among governments, industries, and academia to address these challenges.
For more information, visit Secure World Foundation and strong target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">UNIDIR.