8legs: Sarah thiele

#1 out of 11.98%

Satellites Could Start Smashing into Each Other in Less Than Three Days, Study Finds

New research warns that solar storms could trigger a 2.8-day window to a catastrophic collision in low Earth orbit.
The CRASH Clock metric estimates debris risk if satellites lose maneuvering control.
Researchers say the risk comes from crowded, maneuver-dependent orbits that need constant control.
Solar storms can heat Earth's atmosphere, increasing drag and disrupting satellite positions.
The study cites the 2024 Gannon Storm as an example of widespread orbital adjustments.
Loss of command could allow a debris cascade that limits space access for generations.
The analysis stresses that warnings may not provide enough time to prevent disasters.
Mega-constellations offer benefits but increase dependence on continuous control.
The findings emphasize the need for robust, resilient systems to mitigate risks.
The paper notes that loss of command could dramatically accelerate collision risks compared to 2018.

Vote 1