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Internet startup OneWeb recently launched satellites that may increase the risk of space collisions.
The company launched the first six satellites of its planned satellite network from the Guiana [gee-AN–uh] Space Center. Consisting of 650 satellites, the network aims to make high-speed broadband Internet available worldwide. With 2,000 operational satellites already in orbit around the Earth, and more on the way, scientists voiced their concerns about the likelihood of space collisions.
According to scientists, space collisions can be extremely dangerous. This is because collisions can produce debris. In 2009, a collision between an inoperative Russian satellite and an unmanned space device from the United States resulted in thousands of debris.
Debris from a collision can potentially cause problems, such as impairing a working satellite and rupturing the walls of the International Space Station (ISS). Because some astronauts live at the ISS, they may face serious hazards like extreme temperatures and lack of oxygen, which may threaten their lives.
To address the problems that may be caused by collisions, OneWeb proposed a set of solutions. One is programming its satellites to be independently capable of steering clear of other space objects. The startup also made plans to bring its satellites closer to Earth after five years and eventually pull them down.
On a similar note, NASA proposed its own set of solutions. It suggested the removal of satellites from orbit once they have served their purpose. In addition, NASA recommended improving the quality of these satellites so that they can endure space collisions.