The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is working on new regulations to ensure that satellites orbiting low-Earth in the United States must burn up in the atmosphere no later than five years after their mission ends. In this way, the FCC wants to limit the number of satellites in low Earth orbit.
The regulations apply only to satellites that fly in low Earth orbit, at an altitude of less than 2,000 km. All US satellite companies must comply with it, but the rule also applies to foreign companies entering the US market. There will be a two-year transition period for satellite companies to comply with the rule and there will be According to the Federal Communications Commission Exceptions to the rule can be requested for satellites with scientific purposes.
It is currently believed that the satellites will float in the Earth’s atmosphere 25 years after the end of their mission, where they will burn up. This guidance was drafted by NASA in 1990, but is by no means binding, and the FCC wants to change that. “We no longer consider it sustainable to keep such satellites in low Earth orbit for decades,” said the Federal Communications Commission, which will vote on the new regulations on September 29.
Low Earth orbit satellites orbit the Earth at an altitude of up to 2,000 km. According to NASA Such a satellite must travel at least 7.8 kilometers per second if it is to remain in orbit around the Earth. If the satellite slows down, it returns to Earth where it enters the atmosphere and in some cases burns out completely.
“Total coffee specialist. Hardcore reader. Incurable music scholar. Web guru. Freelance troublemaker. Problem solver. Travel trailblazer.”
More Stories
Astronomers have discovered a new molecule in space. And it's very special
Will it soon be possible to freeze humans and then thaw them again?
Do you also find it difficult to eat more fruits and vegetables? A little scrolling through social media can help