The Growing Risks of Orbital Debris and the Crucial Role of Protective Measures in the Space Industry

As the space industry grows exponentially, so does the threat of orbital debris—an issue that has garnered increased attention, particularly in light of recent satellite incidents. Space junk, ranging from decommissioned satellites to tiny microdebris fragments, poses a critical risk to active satellites, crewed missions, and the sustainability of space operations. Consequently, protective measures are becoming essential to safeguard our space assets and ensure the future of a safe, accessible, and sustainable orbital environment.

Understanding the Threat of Orbital Debris

The space around Earth is currently filled with an estimated 36,500 debris objects over 10 cm and millions of smaller fragments. While larger debris can be tracked, the most dangerous threats are often small, untraceable fragments known as microdebris—typically smaller than 1 cm in size. These tiny particles travel at velocities of up to 28,000 km/h, making even the smallest piece capable of inflicting severe damage to a satellite or space station.

This threat has become especially pertinent in recent years as satellite constellations and the space economy have rapidly expanded. SpaceX’s Starlink, OneWeb, and similar projects are launching thousands of small satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO). The increasing congestion has led to a growing number of high-stakes near misses and several damaging collisions.

Recent Incidents Highlighting the Danger

Recent incidents involving satellite damage underscore the urgency of addressing orbital debris. In early 2024, reports emerged that a prominent Earth observation satellite narrowly avoided a catastrophic collision with an unidentified piece of debris, which passed by at a distance of less than a kilometre. Additionally, there have been several notable incidents of minor debris puncturing satellite components, resulting in mission interruptions or the total loss of a satellite’s functionality.

These events are not isolated. The International Space Station (ISS) had to perform multiple evasive manoeuvres in recent years to avoid collision with debris, and a small particle even punctured a robotic arm on the ISS in 2021. Each incident signals the unpredictable and pervasive nature of debris impacts and the urgent need for solutions.

The Imperative for Protective Measures

For space operators, the threat of microdebris is a daily concern. Damage from even a millimetre-sized particle can compromise critical satellite functions, lead to mission failures, and escalate financial losses. Protective measures, including shielding technologies and debris tracking systems, have thus become essential. Shielding can range from on-satellite armour to protective coatings designed to absorb or deflect high-velocity impacts. These technologies help mitigate the effects of smaller particles that are otherwise impossible to track.

Aphelion Industries, a pioneering player in the field of orbital microdebris solutions, has been developing dual-use technologies to combat this issue. Their on-satellite armour and specialised coatings, designed to withstand the harsh impact of microdebris, provide a robust line of defence for satellite operators. This approach not only helps to prolong the operational life of satellites but also enables operators to focus on mission objectives with greater confidence.

Innovation for Sustainable Space Operations

The broader space community, including commercial, government, and research institutions, is rallying around the need for both proactive and protective measures. Initiatives like NASA’s Orbital Debris Program Office, ESA’s Space Debris Office, and the UK’s Defense and Security Accelerator (DASA) are driving the advancement of tracking, mitigation, and removal technologies. In the private sector, companies like Aphelion Industries are leading the charge with targeted innovations aimed at preserving the viability of orbital space for all.

As the space industry continues its upward trajectory, ensuring safe and sustainable operations in orbit will become more crucial. Protective measures are no longer an optional feature but a necessity for every satellite mission. The commitment to implementing and improving these technologies will be essential to avoiding further incidents, preserving vital satellite infrastructure, and maintaining the integrity of the orbital environment for generations to come.

Conclusion

The risks posed by orbital debris have reached a point where protective measures are indispensable. Recent incidents underscore the potential for catastrophic damage and the fragility of our space infrastructure. Companies such as Aphelion Industries are at the forefront, developing innovative solutions to ensure that satellites can withstand the rigours of this hostile environment. For the space industry to thrive, a multi-faceted approach that includes both protective measures and debris removal solutions will be essential in combating the mounting threat of space junk.

The future of space exploration, communication, and defence hinges on our ability to mitigate the risks of orbital debris effectively. As these protective technologies continue to evolve, the hope is to make space safer, not just for today's operators, but for the countless future missions that will depend on an accessible and sustainable space environment.