Leading space agencies from around the world gathered to unveil their grand plans for the near future, including missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. However, they also expressed concerns about the growing issue of space junk and the need to protect our planet and its delicate ecosystems.
Ambitious Plans for Moon, Mars, and Beyond
The space agency leaders outlined an exciting array of upcoming missions and initiatives. NASA is preparing for its return to the Moon with the Artemis program, which includes the crewed Artemis 2 mission scheduled for September 2023 and the Artemis 3 landing a year later, in late 2026. The European Space Agency (ESA) is launching the Hera spacecraft to study the asteroid Dimorphos, which was previously impacted by NASA’s DART mission, as part of its planetary defense initiatives. ESA is also planning the Ramses mission to study the near-Earth asteroid Apophis.
The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) is collaborating with the United Arab Emirates on an ambitious asteroid mission, and is also working with the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) on the LUPEX lunar south pole mission. ISRO is also planning an uncrewed flight test of its Gaganyaan human spaceflight system later this year, leading to a crewed mission by 2026. The Canada Space Agency (CSA) will be sending an astronaut on the Artemis 2 mission around the Moon.
Addressing the Growing Concern of Space Junk
While the space agencies unveiled their grand plans, they also expressed concerns about the growing issue of space junk. ESA’s Josef Aschbacher stated that his agency has garnered more than 100 signatories to its Zero Debris Charters, which sets out principles for space debris mitigation.
Concerning the threat posed by space debris, CSA’s Lisa Campbell warned, “We’re going to have a reckoning soon when it comes to space sustainability. We’ve created a huge problem for ourselves, and it’s going to make it difficult to use space infrastructure, and it’s urgent.” She emphasized the need to protect the space environment and manage the growing problem of space debris.
This issue is not limited to a single agency or country. CNSA’s Li Guoping also acknowledged the need to address the space debris problem, as it poses a significant challenge to the continued use of space infrastructure and exploration.
To address this challenge, space agencies are exploring various solutions, such as debris removal technologies and international cooperation to develop guidelines and best practices for sustainable space operations. The urgency of this issue is clear, as the continued growth of space debris threatens the long-term viability of space-based activities and exploration.
Protecting the Earth’s Ecosystems from the Impact of Space Exploration
The space agency leaders also expressed concerns about the impact of their activities on Earth’s delicate ecosystems. CSA’s Lisa Campbell highlighted the importance of using satellites to monitor and manage climate change and protect the diverse landscapes and ecosystems in Canada. She stated, “If you’re serious about managing climate change, you need your eyes in the sky.”
This sentiment was echoed by other agency heads, who recognized the need to carefully consider the environmental impact of their space missions and operations. ISRO’s S. Somanath discussed the agency’s plans for a space station, which will require careful consideration of its environmental footprint.
As space exploration continues to advance, it is clear that the space agencies must balance their ambitious plans with a deep commitment to protecting the Earth’s environment. This includes minimizing the impact of space debris, reducing the carbon footprint of space operations, and leveraging space-based technology to better understand and address global environmental challenges.
By taking a holistic approach that considers the broader implications of their activities, the space agencies can ensure that humanity’s exploration of the cosmos is conducted in a sustainable and responsible manner, safeguarding the future of our planet and its diverse ecosystems.
