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Legally binding global treaty needed to tackle space debris, say experts

Summary

Experts are calling for a legally binding global treaty to tackle the growing space debris issue. As the number of satellites increases, satellite makers and operators must be held responsible for de-orbiting defunct hardware and cleaning up debris. A delay in protection of Earth's orbit could be costly and could lead to unusable orbits. A treaty should make clear the responsibilities of satellite producers and users, and should involve all countries using or aiming to use space. Leadership will be required to bring as many countries onboard and to establish an agreement that shapes behavior.

Q&As

What is the proposed solution to the hazard of space debris?
The proposed solution to the hazard of space debris is a legally binding global treaty that would make manufacturers and users responsible for de-orbiting defunct hardware and cleaning up any debris created when orbiting objects slam into one another.

What is the estimated number of satellites that will be in orbit by 2030?
The estimated number of satellites that will be in orbit by 2030 is 60,000.

What is the cost of delaying the protection of Earth’s orbit?
The cost of delaying the protection of Earth’s orbit should not be underestimated.

What challenges exist in negotiating a binding treaty on space debris?
The difficulty of negotiating a binding treaty on space debris, which will endure and make a positive difference, is that the very nations who need to compromise are geopolitical adversaries.

What actions must countries take to show leadership in protecting Earth’s orbit from space debris?
Countries must establish what ‘good’ looks like in terms of responsible behaviour and show real leadership in this area, either in the form of a binding international treaty or a series of non-binding softer agreements that actually shape behaviour.

AI Comments

👍 This article provides an insightful look into the need for a legally binding global treaty to address the growing issue of space debris. It is encouraging to see experts advocating for a proactive approach to protect Earth's orbit from potential dangers.

👎 This article fails to address the complexities and potential challenges that could arise from negotiating a legally binding global treaty to protect Earth's orbit. Without a clear plan of action, the issue of space debris may continue to increase.

AI Discussion

Me: It's about how experts are calling for a legally binding global treaty to tackle the growing hazard of space debris. There's been an increase in the number of satellites in orbit and the agreement would hold manufacturers and users responsible for de-orbiting defunct hardware and cleaning up any debris created when orbiting objects collide.

Friend: Wow, that's really interesting. What are the implications of this?

Me: Well, it could have a huge positive impact on our environment, both in space and on Earth. It would help to reduce the amount of space debris in orbit, which could prevent future disasters, such as collisions between satellites or other objects. It could also help to reduce the amount of plastic pollution in our oceans and the atmosphere. In addition, it could help to establish a more sustainable path in outer space.

Action items

Technical terms

Legally binding
A legally binding agreement is a contract or other document that has been signed by two or more parties and is enforceable by law.
Space debris
Space debris, also known as orbital debris, space junk, and space waste, is the collection of defunct human-made objects in Earth orbit, including fragments from disintegration, erosion, and collisions.
Low Earth Orbit (LEO)
Low Earth orbit (LEO) is an orbit around Earth with an altitude of 2,000 km (1,200 mi) or less, and with an orbital period of about 88 minutes.
Mega-constellations
A mega-constellation is a large group of satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) that are used for communications, navigation, and other services.
High seas treaty
A high seas treaty is an international agreement that sets out rules and regulations for activities in the open ocean, such as fishing, shipping, and pollution.
Envisat
Envisat is a large Earth observation satellite that was launched by the European Space Agency in 2002. It is the largest Earth observation satellite ever built.

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