Living dossier
space debris
A living Archypedia dossier connecting source-backed reporting, context and new developments about space debris.
Evidence timeline
Coverage as it developed
Newest first. Every entry retains its own source ledger and publication history.
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New NASA Images Reveal Crater Left Behind by SpaceX Rocket Impact on the Moon
Captured by the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, new images reveal a 60-foot-wide depression left by a stranded SpaceX upper stage that struck the Moon at 5,400 mph.
Science · 764 words -
Discarded SpaceX rocket stage will accidentally collide with the moon
A 10,000-pound upper stage is expected to strike the lunar surface at 5,400 mph. NASA and South Korean orbiters are positioned to capture the impact and its aftermath.
Science · 880 words -
NASA mission to rescue Swift space telescope delayed by launch problem
A mission to boost the aging Swift gamma-ray telescope's orbit has been paused following a failure to deploy the rocket. NASA is evaluating if a secondary launch attempt is feasible.
Science · 539 words -
ESO study warns massive satellite constellations threaten space observation
New research from the European Southern Observatory indicates that massive satellite constellations could damage astronomical research by creating light trails and elevating background sky brightness. Scientists are calling for an orbital cap to protect the ability to observe the cosmos.
Science · 641 words -
1.7 million planned satellites pose existential threat to astronomy
A new European Southern Observatory study warns that proposed satellite constellations could render ground-based astronomy impossible through massive light pollution and data interference.
Science · 617 words -
Researchers propose new strategies to clear 13,000 tonnes of space junk
To combat the crisis of 13,486 tonnes of orbital debris, scientists are advocating for a shift toward modular satellites and active recycling missions. This strategy aims to prevent runaway collision events and mitigate the environmental impact of decommissioned spacecraft.
Science · 630 words