Get the latest Science News and Discoveries

Low-Earth orbit is just 2.8 days from disaster


Low-Earth orbit is more crowded—and fragile—than it looks. Satellites constantly weave past each other, burning fuel and making dozens of evasive maneuvers every year just to stay safe. A major solar storm could disable navigation and communications, turning that careful dance into chaos. According to new calculations, it may take just days—not decades—for a catastrophic chain reaction to begin, potentially choking off humanity’s access to space for generations.

None

Get the Android app

Or read this on ScienceDaily

Read more on:

Photo of Earth

Earth

Photo of Disaster

Disaster

Photo of Days

Days

Related news:

News photo

Biofilms May Have Sparked Life on Earth—and Could Sustain It in Space

News photo

If an Asteroid Hits The Moon in 2032, The Aftermath Might Reach Earth

News photo

A Star Could Suddenly Explode In 150 Days — Here’s Where To Look