As humanity continues to explore and exploit space, a new challenge has emerged: space debris. To manage this growing problem, the European Space Agency (ESA) developed the Database and Information System Characterising Objects in Space (DISCOS).
What is DISCOS?
DISCOS is a comprehensive database developed and maintained by the European Space Agency. It provides detailed information about space debris, including defunct satellites, spent rocket bodies, and fragments from disintegration, erosion, and collisions.
DISCOS is one of the most comprehensive databases of space objects and space debris, containing data on over 40,000 objects. It’s an essential tool for the research and operational communities working in space debris mitigation and remediation, space traffic management, and spacecraft operation.
Why is DISCOS Important?
The increasing amount of space debris presents a significant risk to both crewed and uncrewed space missions. Tracking and understanding this debris is therefore crucial for several reasons:
- Space Traffic Management: DISCOS plays a critical role in managing space traffic, providing data that can help prevent potential collisions.
- Risk Assessment: The database aids in assessing the risk posed by space debris to space missions and to the International Space Station.
- Space Debris Mitigation and Remediation: Researchers and policymakers use DISCOS to study the space debris environment and develop effective mitigation and remediation strategies.
- Supporting Research: With its detailed records of space objects, DISCOS is a valuable resource for research into space technology, space history, and space environment modeling.
What Information Does DISCOS Contain?
DISCOS contains a wealth of information about each tracked object including:
- International Designation: This is a standard naming convention that denotes the launch year, launch order of that year, and the piece of the payload.
- Name of the Space Object: Each space object has an officially registered name.
- Launching State: This refers to the country or countries responsible for launching the object.
- Launch Date: The date when the object was launched.
- Launch Site: The geographical location from where the object was launched.
- Orbit Information: Data about the object’s orbit, including altitude, inclination, and orbital period.
- Mass and Size: The database provides information on the size and mass of the object, which is crucial for assessing its potential impact risk.
- Status: Information about whether the object is operational or if it’s space debris.
Summary
As we continue our journey into the cosmos, ensuring the sustainability and safety of our space activities becomes ever more critical. In this context, the European Space Agency’s DISCOS database represents a powerful tool, offering a comprehensive understanding of the space objects and debris that crowd our planet’s orbit. This knowledge is vital in enabling us to navigate the challenges of space debris, enhancing the safety and sustainability of space operations.
