Kessler syndrome and the problem of space junk

Kessler syndrome and the problem of space junk
Kessler syndrome and the problem of space junk

Kessler syndrome and the problem of space junk

WBEZ brings you fact-based news and information. Sign up for our newsletters to stay up to date on the stories that matter.
In the late 1970s, Don Kessler, an astrophysicist working for NASA, predicted that leftover parts of satellites in the earth’s orbit might one day collide, causing a ripple effect that might destroy everything in the earth’s near orbit. Nowadays the International Space Station (ISS) makes regular collision avoidance maneuvers, and it seems Kessler’s theory, now known as ‘Kessler’s Syndrome’ is slowly coming true. We’re joined by Don Kessler today, to discuss the problem of ‘space junk’ and the burgeoning industry that promises to resolve it. (Photo: Flickr/Zanpei)