Earth's Lower Orbit Could Rapidly Collapse, Scientists Warn

"Their study, which is yet-to-be-peer reviewed, builds on a theoretical scenario first laid out by NASA scientist Donald Kessler, which describes how just a few accidental collisions between satellites could quickly cascade into a vicious cycle in which the resulting debris causes even more smash-ups, and thus even more debris. At worst, the ensuing vortex of dangerous debris could trap us on our planet and set back spaceflight for decades."

"Kessler originally envisioned this orbital catastrophe unfolding over many years. But the new work adds a grim twist to the mix. What if a Kessler syndrome type scenario was suddenly kicked off by a violent solar storm? These outbursts by the Sun blast the Earth with electromagnetic waves that can disrupt electrical grids and communications. In theory, a powerful enough one could cut off our contact with satellites and fry their navigation systems, leaving them with no means to stay on course."

Satellites and space junk cluttering low Earth orbit could suddenly collapse into a destructive maelstrom of debris that threatens spacecraft and could rain hazardous fragments onto Earth. The scenario builds on NASA scientist Donald Kessler's theory that a few accidental collisions can cascade into a vicious cycle producing ever more debris, potentially trapping humanity on Earth and setting back spaceflight for decades. Growing numbers of satellites, including SpaceX's over 9,000 and planned megaconstellations from Amazon and China, increase collision risk. A violent solar storm could disable satellite navigation and communications, potentially triggering a sudden debris cascade. Operators performed over 300,000 avoidance maneuvers last year.

Read at Futurism