March 2019
Urgent action needed to avert space debris threat
... provide global coverage. So multiple satellites are needed and this has led to designs for ‘mega-constellations’ of huge proportions (up to a thousand satellites or so). LEO is already the most debris-filled region, so it’s difficult to imagine...
June 2022
In-orbit servicing and the future of the space industry
... a good margin to the service provider. There are many other scenarios that present a clear economic incentive. A mega constellation, for example, can be disrupted by the failure of just a few satellites. As such, the ability to extend the life...
September 2017
Measuring space debris risk
...here to stay A wider concern is that proposed new mega constellations will place much more satellite ‘sail area’ into already ...active spacecraft. A wider concern is that proposed new mega constellations will place much more satellite ‘sail area’ into ...
January 2019
Preparing for a robotic revolution in Earth orbit
... debris might become affordable. Small deorbit robots could also be vital for the many proposed LEO mega-constellations to comply with deorbit guidelines. The sheer number of these satellites is projected to be a significant contributor to the debris...
April 2019
Space launch industry analysis
... has a trump card in that, as well as external launch orders, it has its own mega-constellation of satellites to launch. Of course, most of the large constellations are not yet proven – technically or financially – and some may fail to materialise...
31 March 2021
A new skyglow effect produced by space objects is brightening our night skies, new study says.
... astronomers stand to lose access to pristine night skies,” Barentine said. As organisations work to understand the impact of mega-constellations on optical and radio astronomical facilities, the researchers hope that their work will help the ongoing...
