Astrophysicist Dr. Jonathan McDowell explains how the ever-growing problem of space junk is threatening satellites, science missions, and even spaceflight as we know it.
In this episode, Jonathan discusses orbital debris, anti-satellite missiles, clean-up efforts, and how one incident could cause a communication blackout for decades. In the lawless realm of low Earth orbit, we could see a future where space exploration comes to a halt altogether. However, some companies are testing solutions that aim to alleviate the problem before it's too late. There is a lot to learn!
Resources:
Chapters:
- (00:00) - Intro
- (01:32) - Space Junk Overview
- (05:11) - Small Debris Damage
- (07:54) - Aerospace Beginnings
- (09:37) - Tracking Launches
- (11:39) - Dodging Debris
- (15:21) - Anti-Satellite Missiles
- (20:36) - Space Air Traffic Control
- (23:27) - Safer Altitudes
- (24:47) - The End of the ISS
- (29:17) - How Space Junk is Blocking Research
- (31:52) - Billboards in Space
- (33:47) - Satellite Designs
- (35:05) - Cleaning Up
- (36:07) - Jonathan's Advice
- (38:14) - Outro
What is Behind the Wings?
Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum has a podcast! Based on our hit YouTube and PBS series of the same name, the Behind the Wings podcast will cover everything from aviation history to the future of space exploration with thought leaders and experts in the industry. This one's going to be cool!