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Experts Warn of Space Traffic Crisis Without Global Cooperation on Low Earth Orbit

  • 02 Dec 2024 04:09 AM
  • Low Earth Orbit, Space Traffic, Space Debris, Satellite Collisions

The rapid increase in satellites and space junk is threatening the future of Low Earth Orbit (LEO), the most accessible region of space. Experts and industry insiders have raised alarms, stating that without international cooperation and data sharing, LEO could soon become overcrowded and unsafe. According to the United Nations, more than 14,000 satellites, along with over 120 million pieces of debris, are already in orbit, with many more expected in the coming years. This growing congestion is increasing the risk of satellite collisions, which could disrupt global communication, navigation, and scientific exploration.

The UN has urged countries and private companies to share data and collaborate to prevent accidents. However, significant barriers remain, including geopolitical tensions and concerns over protecting sensitive data. The situation is worsening, with recent incidents like the explosion of a Chinese rocket stage and a defunct Russian satellite scattering thousands of debris pieces. With the commercial space sector growing rapidly, experts warn that action is needed now to regulate space traffic and protect the future of space exploration.

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