Satellite Design

Solid rocket boosters release alumina particles that catalyse ozone destruction in the upper atmosphere.

Risk of lithium-ion batteries overheating and causing fire or explosion, potentially leading to satellite fragmentation and debris creation.

Rocket exhaust deposits black carbon particles in the stratosphere, absorbing solar radiation and contributing to localised warming and ozone depletion.

Risk of a decommissioned or uncontrolled satellite colliding with active spacecraft, potentially creating a cascading debris event (Kessler Syndrome).

Satellite avionics contain hazardous materials that contribute to e-waste concerns if not properly managed during end-of-life.

Residual propellant remaining in decommissioned satellites can cause explosions, generating significant debris fields.

Working fluids in satellite heat pipes (often ammonia or acetone) are toxic and pose risks during manufacturing and in the event of leakage.

Leakage of highly toxic hydrazine propellant during handling, fuelling, or in-orbit operations, posing severe health and environmental hazards.

Spillage of propellants and combustion byproducts contaminate soil and groundwater at launch facilities.

Limited geostationary orbital slots are becoming increasingly congested, raising collision risks and limiting future access.

Dependence on limited sources of rare earth elements for electronics and solar cells creates supply vulnerability and drives environmentally destructive mining practices.

Increasing satellite numbers cause radio frequency spectrum congestion, degrading signal quality for all users and increasing interference.

Bright satellites create light streaks in telescope images, severely impacting ground-based astronomical research.

Production of photovoltaic cells generates toxic byproducts including cadmium compounds, silicon tetrachloride, and solvent waste.

Satellite components surviving atmospheric re-entry may impact populated areas, posing risks to human safety and causing ground contamination.