CubeSat Satellites May Pose Collision Risk as Space Debris Rises

There are an increasing number of small "CubeSat" satellites being launched into orbit. Now, though, scientists have announced that in combination with a relaxed attitude to debris mitigation, these satellites could lead to hazards for all space users.

CubeSats are small satellites that provide opportunities for companies to break into space data and communications industries. While they don't have much (if any) maneuvering capability, they are perceived to have a low impact on the space debris environment. Despite guidelines that require satellites to deorbit within 25 years, though, some of these CubeSats are being launched into high Earth orbits, which means their orbital lifetime could be far greater and cause them to pose future risk to other satellites and even to personnel.

About a third of all CubSats launched to date are estimated to remain in orbit for more than 25 years. Since 205, these small satellites have been involved in more than 360,000 close approaches of less than 5 km with other orbiting objects. This, in particular points out the need to take steps to reduce collision risk.

In order to see the possible future impacts of CubeSats, the researchers used their Debris Analysis and Monitoring Architecture to the Geosynchronous Environment (DAMAGE) model to simulate three future CubeSat launch traffic scenarios until the year 2043. In the end, they found that CubeSats are estimated to be involved in millions of close approaches over the next 30 years, with a handful leading to collision.

"To reduce the risks, some effort is needed to engage with the growing small satellite community," said Hugh Lewis, one of the researchers, in a news release. "All space users, not just those in the CubeSat community, who are taking the right steps should be encouraged to continue and, ultimately, lead on sustainable practices and debris mitigation activities."

The findings reveal the importance of taking steps to reducing close approaches and collision risk. By opening up discussion across the CubeSat community, those launching satellites can gather the needed information in order to reduce the likelihood of a collision.