Starlink satellites by Elon Musk could harm Earth's ozone layer: Study
Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
Ozone Layer Threat
Researchers from the University of Southern California have raised alarms that internet satellite networks, such as Elon Musk's Starlink, could be harming the Earth's ozone layer.
Harmful Emissions
The study, published in Geophysical Research Letters, claims that Starlink satellites emit significant amounts of aluminium oxide gas into the atmosphere, which can deplete the ozone layer.
Importance of the Ozone Layer
The ozone layer is crucial for protecting life on Earth by absorbing harmful ultraviolet radiation from the Sun, which can cause skin cancer and affect crop yields.
Research Findings
"Only in recent years have people started to think this might become a problem," said Joseph Wang, co-author and USC astronautics researcher. The team explored the potential implications of these emissions.
Satellite Lifecycle
Internet satellites in low Earth orbit typically last about five years. When they re-enter the atmosphere at the end of their service lives, they burn up, releasing over 1,000 tons of aluminium oxide annually, a 646% increase from natural levels.
Chemical Reactions
Aluminium oxides are known to catalyse destructive reactions with chlorine, leading to ozone depletion. The researchers noted that a typical 250-kg satellite could produce around 30 kg of aluminium oxide nanoparticles, which may linger in the atmosphere for decades.
Increasing Levels
The study observed that aluminium oxide presence increased eightfold from 2016 to 2022, with projections indicating a further surge due to upcoming satellite launches.
Future Satellite Launches
SpaceX has permission to launch another 42,000 Starlink satellites, while Amazon and other companies also plan to launch thousands more, exacerbating the problem.
Space Debris Concerns
The rapid increase in satellite numbers also raises issues about space debris, which can lead to collisions and damage other satellites, further complicating the situation.