Research published in Geophysical Research Letters claimed that Starlink satellites could damage the ozone layer as its operations release abundant amounts of aluminum oxide.
The research also estimated that deorbited satellites will release harmful gases that will stay in the ozone layer for decades.
Starlink Satellites Poses Danger to Ozone Layer, Environment
SpaceX's Starlink satellites are designed to burn in the atmosphere once their service ends. The company has already launched more than 6,000 satellites and is nowhere near stopping.
Researchers shared that a small satellite is accountable for 30 kg of aluminum oxides once it is deorbited. In 2022, about 17 tonnes of tiny aluminum oxide particles were detected from falling satellites.
"Only in recent years have people started to think this might become a problem," said Joseph Wang, one of the study's authors. The researchers claimed that they were the first team to examine the implications of launching thousands of satellites into space.
Satellite Launches to Increase Damage on Ozone Layer
SpaceX has been cleared to launch another 12,000 Starlink satellites while other companies like Amazon are also seeking to launch their satellites in the following years. The researchers estimate that the existing planned satellite launches could contribute to over 350 tonnes of aluminum oxides per year.
The study also emphasized how the environmental impacts of the reentry of satellites are poorly explained to the public. The aluminum oxide can continuously deplete the ozone layer as it reacts with chlorine.
The scientists suggested that more teams should look into the environmental impact of the satellites as the demand for global internet increases. Once the ozone is damaged, it could affect crop yields, food production, and the human condition.
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