Kessler syndrome

The Kessler syndrome is a hypothetical scenario in which the density of objects in low Earth orbit, such as space debris, reaches a point where collisions between objects generate a cascade of further collisions. This chain reaction would create an exponentially increasing amount of debris, potentially rendering low Earth orbit unusable for satellites and spacecraft for generations.1

Space debris includes defunct artificial objects orbiting Earth, ranging from large rocket stages to tiny paint flecks. Even small debris can cause significant damage to spacecraft due to the high orbital speeds involved. The Kessler syndrome is a concern as the number of satellites, particularly large constellations, continues to grow, increasing the risk of such catastrophic collisions.2