Starship could create more debris than an anti-satellite test if it explodes in orbit
Aerospace experts warn that a potential in-orbit explosion of SpaceX's Starship could generate a massive debris field, exceeding the impact of previous anti-satellite tests. The FAA currently lacks regulatory authority over in-orbit activities, raising concerns about space safety.
Why it matters
The proliferation of space debris poses a long-term threat to satellite constellations and human spaceflight safety.
As Starship, the world’s largest and most powerful rocket, gears up for an attempt to finally reach Earth’s orbit, experts say the risk of an in-flight catastrophe – and a cloud of debris – “needs to be of concern”.
Elon Musk’s SpaceX is expected to launch the Starship spacecraft and Super Heavy booster for the launch system’s 14th test flight and first orbital test flight later this month.
According to one aerospace expert, if the Starship’s upper stage explodes in orbit it could produce debris on a scale larger than previous in-orbit incidents, including an anti-satellite missile test.
During that test, in November 2021, Russia intentionally blew up a defunct Soviet intelligence satellite called Cosmos-1408.
Moriba Jah, a professor of aerospace engineering at The University of Texas at Austin, said the Russian test had detrimental consequences for the operation of SpaceX’s Starlink satellite constellation.
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