Synopsis
Here is a summary of the key points from the report to Congress on the risks associated with reentry disposal of satellites from large constellations:
- The report was prepared by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in response to a requirement in Public Law 116-260 for the FAA to study the risks associated with reentry disposal of satellites.
- The report focuses on the risks to people on the ground and in aircraft from debris generated during the reentry and disposal of satellites from large constellations in low Earth orbit (LEO).
- It provides data on the number and mass of satellites expected to be launched into LEO through 2035 by companies like SpaceX, Amazon, OneWeb, and others.
- It estimates that by 2035, without changes, there could be a 1 in 10 chance of 1 or more casualties from reentering debris, and a 1 in 4,000 chance of an aviation accident from reentry debris per year.
- The report notes that some companies claim their satellites will fully demise during reentry, but uses more conservative assumptions that some non-demisable debris may reach the ground.
- It acknowledges the FAA’s limited authority over payloads launched outside the U.S. and suggests regulatory changes and voluntary industry standards to mitigate risks.
- The report has prompted debate, with SpaceX critiquing some of the analysis and underlying assumptions as flawed. Discussions are ongoing between companies, researchers, and regulators on approaches to further evaluate and mitigate reentry risks.
In summary, the report provides Congress with the FAA’s perspective on the potential risks associated with large satellite constellations and disposal of satellites at end of life, highlighting areas for further research, industry standards, and possible regulatory actions.
