Why are lost reconnaissance satellites still orbiting the Earth and what threat do they pose

As of May 2024, there are approximately 2,600 operational satellites orbiting the Earth. However, there are also thousands of defunct satellites — some intentionally left in orbit, while others have malfunctioned or been destroyed. These lost satellites pose a number of threats to both the environment and human safety.

Environmental threats

Lost satellites can collide with working satellites, creating debris that can further pollute space. This debris can also re-enter the Earth's atmosphere and burn up, producing harmful pollutants. In addition, lost satellites can block sunlight and interfere with radio signals.

Threats to human security

Lost satellites can also pose a threat to human security. If a lost satellite falls to Earth, it could potentially impact and damage property or even kill people. In addition, lost satellites may contain hazardous materials that could enter the environment if they break up.

What can be done?

There are a number of things that can be done to reduce the threat posed by lost satellites. One option is to deorbit satellites that are no longer operational. This can be done by firing the engines to slow the satellite down until it re-enters the Earth's atmosphere and burns up. Another option is to capture defunct satellites with a spacecraft and then drop them to Earth for disposal.

However, de-orbiting or capturing lost satellites is expensive and technically difficult. As a result, thousands of lost satellites still remain in orbit, and the number is expected to increase in the coming years.

The need for international cooperation

The problem of lost satellites is global and requires international cooperation to solve it. Governments, space agencies and private companies must work together to develop new and more efficient ways to deorbit and capture lost satellites.

In addition, there is a need to raise public awareness of the threat posed by lost satellites. The more people know about the problem, the more likely they are to support efforts to clean up space debris.

Lost satellites are a serious problem that threatens both the environment and human safety. There is a need for international cooperation to develop new and more efficient ways to de-orbit and capture lost satellites. In addition, it is necessary to raise public awareness of the threat posed by space debris.