Since the start of the Space Age in 1957, thousands of satellites have been launched into outer space. Only a few percent of these satellites perform any useful function; the rest is all debris, popularly referred to as “space junk”. The Earth is surrounded by a dense cloud of debris that comprises inactive satellites, spent upper stages of rockets, mission-related debris and other manmade objects. This talk will provide an overview of the current situation regarding space debris and its implications for outer space activities.

Dr Peter Martinez is the Chairman of the SA Council for Space Affairs.