What's Happening?
Scientists are calling for a new global regime to address the air pollution caused by the increasing number of space launches. Research led by Prof Eloise Marais at University College London highlights the significant rise in rocket launches, with 259 launches in 2024 alone, burning over 153,000 tonnes of fuel. The emissions from these launches, particularly from mega-constellation satellites like Starlink and OneWeb, have led to a threefold increase in climate-altering soot and carbon dioxide. These pollutants remain in the upper atmosphere longer than those from other industries, causing greater climate warming impacts.
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Why It's Important?
The call for action is crucial as the space industry continues to grow, with more mega-constellations planned for launch. The emissions from these launches could undermine efforts to repair the ozone layer and exacerbate climate change. Addressing this issue is vital for maintaining the progress made by international environmental agreements like the Montreal Protocol. The space industry, while advancing technology and communication, must also consider its environmental footprint and work towards sustainable practices.
What's Next?
Scientists and environmental advocates are likely to push for international regulations to manage the environmental impact of space launches. This could involve developing cleaner technologies and establishing guidelines for sustainable space activities. Governments and space agencies may need to collaborate on creating policies that balance technological advancement with environmental protection.
