Satellite Deorbiting: What Happens to Broken Satellites in Space

The question of what happens to broken satellites is a crucial concern in the realm of space exploration. Most satellites are not in a state of eternal floating; they maintain their orbits due to their high-speed tangential motion and the ability to counteract gravity through orbital mechanics. This article will explore the fate of these satellites as they eventually fall back to Earth, with a focus on Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), and Geostationary Orbit (GEO).

Overview of Satellite Orbits

Orbits are defined by the speed and direction of the satellite’s movement. In LEO (300 km to 2000 km), satellites move at relatively high speeds close to the Earth’s surface. These are the most common types of orbits used for communication and weather monitoring.

In MEO (2000 km to 35000 km), the distances are much greater, and these orbits are often used for GPS and other navigation systems. Finally, in GEO (36700 km), the altitude is far greater, and satellites remain in a constant position relative to the Earth’s surface.

The Fate of Old Satellites

As satellite orbits decay, old satellites eventually return to Earth. This process can take varying amounts of time depending on the specific orbit. In LEO, the decay can happen within 5-20 years. However, in higher orbits like GEO, it can take hundreds to thousands of years. This prolonged period is due to the delicate balance between the satellite’s speed and the Earth’s gravitational pull.

Decay and Demise

When a satellite’s orbit decays, it eventually burns up as it re-enters the Earth’s atmosphere. However, if the satellite is larger, it is often deorbited to fall into the ocean if possible. This reduces the risk of littering the Earth’s surface with debris. The process is managed with precision to ensure that any leftover components do not pose a threat.

Controlled Disposal

In some cases, satellite operators can maneuver the satellite to burn up upon re-entry. If the satellite is still in communication, it can be sent to a lower orbit to burn up. If it is out of communication, it will naturally decay over a period of years. For GEO satellites, which are much higher, the best policy is to send them to a graveyard orbit, a region further away from active satellites to minimize the risk of collision.

Regulation and Future Considerations

With the increasing number of satellites being launched, regulatory authorities in various countries have implemented requirements for safe satellite disposal. Operators are now required to have a controlled deorbiting plan in place should their satellite cease to function. This not only ensures the safety of the satellite but also helps prevent the creation of more space debris.

Given the current environmental and technological advancements, it is becoming increasingly important for satellite operators to plan for the end-of-life phase of their satellites. This proactive approach not only ensures a cleaner space environment but also makes future missions safer and more efficient.

So, what happens to broken satellites? They ultimately fall back to Earth, often burning up in the atmosphere, with operators managing the process to minimize disruption to the Earth’s surface and other space objects.

The regulation and management of space debris are critical to maintaining a sustainable approach to space exploration. As the number of satellites in orbit continues to grow, the focus on safe disposal and deorbiting will become even more crucial.