The LEO Debris Problem: A Reentry Solution Analysis
Abstract
Since the beginning of the Space Age, thousands of man-made objects have been placed into orbit around the Earth. The number of objects in low Earth orbit (LEO) is continuing to increase, and overcrowding is becoming critical. This report focuses on the problems facing spacecraft in LEO and gives findings of a modeling study on reentry survivability, measured findings, and recommendations for improvements. The methodology of the modeling study is presented along with the results. Variables such as type of material, mass, and mode of spinning/tumbling are evaluated. The objective of this section is to determine the point of demise (burn-up) or survivability of the object. The next section presents measured findings of a study on 331 reentries of inactive spacecraft, expended upper stages, and spacecraft deployments from September 1992 to December 1996. This study was conducted, in part, to determine if impact zones were found to be essentially uniform in terms of latitude and longitude. The results of these two sections on reentry, along with a review of the legal ramifications involved in reentry, were used to recommend the use of de-orbiting to lessen the amount of debris in LEO. Additionally, this report presents specific guidelines on possible solutions to the problem, along with the benefits and drawbacks of each.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 26, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA356355
Entities
People
- Diane W. Ashley
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology