Space Debris & Micrometeoroids: Escalating Threat to Global Space Missions

Micrometeoroids and Orbital Debris (MMOD) pose a significant and growing threat to spacecraft and astronaut safety, encompassing both natural particles and human-made space junk. These high-velocity objects can cause catastrophic damage, necessitating global mitigation strategies and international cooperation.

• MMOD comprises natural micrometeoroids and human-made orbital debris.
• Both travel at hypervelocities, making even tiny fragments dangerous.
• Orbital debris concentrates in LEO; micrometeoroids are widespread but denser near Earth.
• Kessler Syndrome describes a cascading effect of debris collisions, creating more fragments.
• Mitigation involves shielding, collision avoidance, and responsible space practices.
• Recent incidents highlight the urgent need for global solutions to space sustainability.

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