Mitigating orbital debris risks
NASA protects spacecraft through design measures, operational practices, and collaboration on space traffic management. Risk reduction includes shielding, avoidance maneuvers, and end-of-life disposal plans.
Common practices:
- Whipple shields and structural design to withstand small impacts.
- Tracking cataloged debris and performing avoidance maneuvers when collision probability rises.
- Designing satellites with planned deorbit or graveyard orbit procedures.
Policy and coordination
- NASA collaborates with international and commercial partners to share tracking data and best practices.
- Standards for debris mitigation guide mission planning and spacecraft disposal.
Active tracking and responsible design help preserve orbital environments and reduce the risk posed by debris to valuable missions.