Constant Space Launches Turning Earth's Atmosphere Into a "Crematorium," Scientists Say

Constant Space Launches Turning Earth's Atmosphere Into a "Crematorium," Scientists Say

Constant space launches are turning the atmosphere into a “crematorium” for satellites and other space debris. That was the warning from a trio of astronomers and atmospheric scientists in a new essay for The Conversation, which outlines the grim consequences of populating the Earth’s orbit with tens of thousands of expendable satellites.  Satellites, they write, “have become part of throwaway culture.” Companies like Elon Musk’s SpaceX design t…

A new space race could turn our atmosphere into a ‘crematorium for satellites’

Planned ‘megaconstellations’ of satellites could cause unforeseen harm to the ozone layer and climate systems. Global regulation is needed before it’s too late.

Earth’s Atmosphere Could Become a ‘Crematorium’ for Satellites, New Study Warns

The rapid growth of satellite launches in recent years has become a topic of concern for both scientists and environmentalists. A study published in The Conversation sheds light on how this expansion of space infrastructure, especially the rise of mega-constellations, could have severe long-term consequences for Earth’s atmosphere, safety, and even cultural practices. As thousands of satellites burn up in Earth’s atmosphere and more are planned …