Click Here The space debris strikes back
10 snips
Jul 1, 2025 
Jen White, the host of NPR's 1A, dives into the urgent issue of space debris, discussing its potential as both a cleanup challenge and a critical threat vector. She highlights how forgotten satellites could serve as cover for cyberattacks or even weapons. The conversation touches on real-life incidents, the escalating dangers posed by space junk to astronauts and the ISS, and the implications for military strategy in this new competitive landscape. White also emphasizes the need for global cooperation to protect our increasingly crowded orbit.
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Tiny Debris Causes Major Damage
- Tiny paint flecks can cause massive damage at 17,000 miles per hour in orbit.
- Even teeny holes in the International Space Station show the real danger of space debris.
Elon Musk Satellite Fell to Earth
- Jordan Hobbs found a piece of a fallen Elon Musk satellite in his Australian yard.
- He stored it away to avoid constant visitor inquiries about the space debris artifact.
Kessler Syndrome: Cosmic Pileup Risk
- One collision in orbit can trigger a chain reaction knocking satellites out of orbit.
- This cascading effect is known as the Kessler Syndrome, risking unusable low Earth orbit.
