SpaceX: Eco-Vandal?

Satellites Harming the Ozone Layer, Study Finds

A recent study by the University of Southern California reveals that satellite debris burning up in the Earth's atmosphere is damaging the ozone layer.

As their materials burn up upon reentry, [satellites] leave behind particle pollutants made up of aluminum oxides, which are "known catalysts for chlorine activation that depletes ozone in the stratosphere."

Since 2016, these pollutants have increased eightfold, with an estimated total of 17 metric tons in 2022.

The ozone layer, which protects life on Earth by filtering UV radiation from the sun, is already struggling to recover from previous damage caused by chlorofluorocarbons.

The EPA had predicted a full recovery in the next 25-35 years, but this depends on a decrease in ozone-depleting substances. This seems unlikely as SpaceX, Amazon, and others race to deploy more satellites.

Starlink, owned by Elon Musk's SpaceX, currently dominates with ~6,000 satellites in low Earth orbit. These satellites provide internet access to remote areas but come at a cost to the environment.

The race for space exploration and expansion endangers our planet. As companies like SpaceX lead private exploration, the consequences for our planet's health must be considered.

Sources:

• https://www.usc.edu/
• https://www.epa.gov/ozone-layer-protection