Experts emphasize that every year more satellite and rocket launches place a growing environmental burden on both the Earth's atmosphere and space orbit. The accumulation, known as “space debris,” consists of unused satellites, vehicles that have completed their missions, and particles.
“Circular Space Economy” proposal from researchers
In the study, published in the journal Chem Circularity, scientists from many countries proposed a model based on the principles of “reduce, reuse and recycle” for space activities.
If future spacecraft and satellites are constructed from more durable, repairable and reusable materials, waste can be reduced and costs can be reduced, according to the study.
One of the authors of the study, Prof. from the University of Surrey. “As exploration advances at an ever-increasing pace, sustainable design is critical to ensuring that mistakes made on Earth are not repeated in space,” Jin Xuan said.
Environmental impact of rockets and their “graveyard orbits”
Each rocket launch consumes large amounts of material and can release greenhouse gases and ozone-depleting substances into the atmosphere.
Satellites that complete their missions are often pushed into “graveyard orbits,” decommissioned, or turned into space debris. This increases the risk of collision for active satellites.
Researchers say that in the future, space stations can be designed not only as research centers, but also as repair and maintenance points, refueling centers and production facilities in orbit.
In this way, it is said, new parts could be manufactured and the lifespan of spacecraft extended by launching fewer rockets.
New technologies for collecting space debris
Scientists support active recovery methods that use nets, robotic arms and specialized capture systems to clear debris in orbit. These materials can be recycled and used for new tasks.
Artificial intelligence can manage space traffic
The study also emphasizes that big data and artificial intelligence-based systems can help design spacecraft more efficiently, analyze risks and prevent collisions.
International cooperation is a must
The research team finds that space traffic management and recycling practices are not only a technological problem, but also a political one. The need for international standards and cooperation for a sustainable structure is emphasized.
Prof. “The entire system, from materials to design, from recycling to governance, needs to be considered together,” Xuan said.
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