Would satellites be disposed off early after use in space? US eyes new rules
Would satellites be disposed off early after use in space? US eyes new rules
The US FCC is looking to introduce new rules to manage satellites in Low Earth Orbit, the area nearly 160 kilometers above the planet.
LEO’s close proximity to Earth makes it useful for several reasons. It is the orbit most commonly used for satellite imaging, as being near the surface allows it to take images of higher resolution. (Representative Image)
HIGHLIGHTS
- The new FCC rules could reduce the timeframe that is required to maintain satellites in orbit
- The American agency currently regulates operators of satellites in LEO
- The new rules will be an update to the 2004 regulations
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States will vote this month on major issues of space debris as more and more satellites reach Low Earth Orbit, congesting the already tightened space above Earth. The organisation will aim to introduce new rules to address the growing risks of orbital debris.
The Low Earth Orbit is normally at an altitude of less than 1000 kilometers but could be as low as 160 kilometers above Earth.
The new FCC rules could reduce the timeframe that is required to maintain satellites in orbit once their missions are complete, after which they have to re-enter into Earth’s atmosphere for a fiery demise. The new rules will be an update to the 2004 regulations calling for satellite post-mission disposal as soon as practicable but no more than five years.
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