SPACE DEBRIS IN EARTH ORBIT: CAUSES AND CONSEQUENCES

Abstract

From the launch of the first artificial satellite around the Earth to the present date, several non-functional objects are orbiting the planet, called space debris. In this work, we investigate ways to mitigate space debris to contribute to the sustainability of space exploration. To do this, we analyzed the 2022 ESA report where we present the main data on the evolution of space debris.  We present mathematical modeling of major orbital perturbations and perform numerical simulations to show the orbital evolution of space debris. The idea is to encourage sustainable missions and measures to address the global problem of space debris.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56238/sevened2025.011-075