NASA and SpaceX are working together to find solutions to the issue of debris from the Dragon spacecraft's trunk section surviving re-entry and reaching the ground.
Initially, the Dragon trunk was expected to fully burn up upon reentry, but recent discoveries have shown that this is not always the case.
To address this problem, NASA and SpaceX are exploring changes to the deorbiting procedures.
While no injuries have been reported from the Dragon trunk debris incidents, the potential risks to property and aviation remain a concern.
Watch | Having Multivitamin supplements do not help us live longer: Study × NASA advised anyone who comes across space debris to avoid handling it and to contact local authorities immediately.
NASA and SpaceX are working together to find solutions to the issue of debris from the Dragon spacecraft's trunk section surviving re-entry and reaching the ground. This comes after several incidents where debris has been reportedly found in various locations, including Australia, Canada and North Carolina. Initially, the Dragon trunk was expected to fully burn up upon reentry, but recent discoveries have shown that this is not always the case.
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NASA has acknowledged that the models used to predict reentry breakup did not accurately account for the composite materials in the trunk structure, which behave more like a thermal protection system.
To address this problem, NASA and SpaceX are exploring changes to the deorbiting procedures. Currently, the trunk is released before the capsule performs its deorbit burn, allowing the trunk to remain in orbit for months before an uncontrolled reentry.
The agencies are examining the possibility of doing the deorbit burn with the trunk still attached, and then separating it in a way that would ensure any surviving debris lands in unpopulated areas.
This alternative approach presents challenges, such as the need for additional propellant and the precise timing of the trunk separation. However, the teams are confident they can find a solution that will improve the safety and sustainability of SpaceX's space operations.
The issue of falling space debris has gained attention after a piece of an ISS battery rack crashed through the roof of a house in Florida, causing an estimated $80,000 damage.
While no injuries have been reported from the Dragon trunk debris incidents, the potential risks to property and aviation remain a concern.
Sustainable space operations
This has prompted calls for NASA to set a precedent of responsible and sustainable space operations by compensating victims, even in cases where no fault is determined.
Watch | Having Multivitamin supplements do not help us live longer: Study × NASA advised anyone who comes across space debris to avoid handling it and to contact local authorities immediately.
(With inputs from agencies)
