

This is where nonoperational probes or orbiting satellites can be refitted in space and avoiding the kessler effect (collision cascading or
ablation cascade causing plumes rendering each other inoperative , proposed by
the NASA scientist Donald J. Kessler in 1978, is a scenario in which the
density of objects in low Earth orbit called (LEO) is high enough that
collisions between objects could cause a cascade-each collision generating
space debris which increases the likelihood of further collisions. One
implication is that the distribution of debris in orbit could render space
exploration and even the use of satellites, unfeasible for many generations. Every
satellite, space probe, and manned mission has the potential to create space
debris. A cascading Kessler syndrome becomes more likely as satellites in orbit
increase in number and old satellites become inoperative. One technology
proposed to help deal with fragments from 1 cm to 10 cm in size is a laser
broom, this proposed multimegawatt land-based laser that could de-orbit debris. The
side of the debris hit by the laser would change trajectory and create a thrust that would
change remains of the fragment until it would re-enter
harmlessly.
Orbital decay
is much slower at higher altitudes where atmospheric drag is insignificant. Slight
atmospheric drag, lunar perturbation, and solar wind drag can gradually bring
debris down to lower altitudes where fragments finally re-enter. But this
process can take millennium at very high altitudes. The Kessler Syndrome is especially
insidious because of its domino effect and plume paths wherein impacts between objects of sizable mass spills of debris
from the force of collisions. The shrapnel can then hit other objects, creating
even more space debris. based on the assumption weapon stockpiling. So if a large enough collision or explosion were to occur,
such as between a space station and a defunct satellite, or as the result of
hostile actions in space, then the resulting debris cascade could render low
Earth orbit essentially impassable. So designers
of a new vehicle or satellite are frequently required to demonstrate that it
can be safely disposed of at the end of its life. For an example by use of a
controlled atmospheric re-entry system.
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