drop_database_run t1_jd0r1zh wrote
Reply to comment by CovertLeopard in Student built satellite launched by SpaceX and powered by 48 AA batteries and a $20 microprocessor shows a low-cost way to reduce space junk by DukeOfGeek
They're testing the tech to reduce space junk, if it works cube says (generally considered disposable) won't spend 30 years in orbit. Yes it will be space junk, but it is a test that will mitigate space junk in the future.
Ex. Sat A has a life expectancy of three years, it will be in orbit for 25-30 years. Sat B also has a life expectancy of three years but will only be in orbit for 5 years.
If these satellites are replaced on schedule, there will be 10 Model A in orbit with one functioning verse 2 (maybe 3) model B in orbit at any given point over the same time frame
Joates87 t1_jd4yw8i wrote
We get it, the title just kinda lies.
Reducing space junk implies the removal or elimination of the already existing problem.
drop_database_run t1_jd4zciz wrote
That space junk will eventually eliminate itself, this does eliminate space junk faster as in my example above it does mitigate the total amount of stuff in orbit. It isn't wrong, it's just not right in the way you were hoping. Short of making a space garbage truck this is the way forward
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