Tracking solar storms is key to slowing the growth of space debris. Researchers from the University of Bath in Britain led a collaborative effort that suggests this approach can curb the number of orbiting fragments. The findings were shared through a scientific institution’s online platform, underscoring the connection between space weather and debris management.
Experts emphasize that predicting satellite malfunctions and potential collisions hinges on how solar activity reshapes the Earth’s upper atmosphere. When solar activity rises, the upper atmosphere heats up and expands, increasing drag on satellites and altering their trajectories. This dynamic makes the space environment more hostile during storms and requires timely responses from operators.
As a concrete example, early in 2022, SpaceX’s Starlink constellation experienced the loss of about 40 satellites during magnetic storms. The storms drove atmospheric expansion, which boosted atmospheric drag and hastened orbital decay for those devices. The episode highlights how solar events can translate into real operational challenges for large satellite networks.
Current space surveillance networks monitor more than 27,000 tracked pieces of orbital debris. Yet there are millions of smaller objects, estimated at over 170 million, that escape formal cataloging. These tiny fragments often originate from explosions or collisions involving retired missiles and other debris. Even seemingly minor debris can pose a serious risk to active spacecraft, given the cumulative effect of many small objects colliding or striking satellites and long-duration missions.
To address this, a coalition of 26 institutions across nine countries, guided by the University of Bath, has launched a focused project to combat space debris. The initiative envisions deploying a specialized satellite constellation designed to observe debris movements and monitor space weather in real time. A network of compact orbiters would enable continuous observation of orbital traffic and provide early warnings about hazardous conditions for satellite operators, enabling timely maneuvers or protective measures.
In a parallel development, the United States has taken historic steps to enhance debris mitigation efforts. These moves reflect a growing consensus that proactive tracking, improved modeling, and stronger international cooperation are essential to preserving the stability of near-Earth orbits for the long term.