TED: Let's clean up the space junk orbiting earth | Natalie Panek

The video discusses the critical role satellites play in our daily lives and the growing issue of space debris as defunct satellites clutter Earth's orbit. It highlights the lack of international laws to manage this problem and compares it to waste issues on Mount Everest. The video explores potential solutions, such as satellite recycling and innovative technologies, to mitigate space debris and emphasizes the need for sustainable space exploration.

What is one of the primary roles of satellites in our daily lives?

• Providing fresh water

• Facilitating global communication

• Generating electricity

• Producing food

What happens to satellites when they reach the end of their mission life?

• They are used for new missions

• They become space debris

• They are recycled on Earth

• They are sent to the Moon

How does the highway analogy relate to space debris?

• Satellites are like cars that never break down

• Space debris is like abandoned cars on a highway

• Highways are used to launch satellites

• Space debris is cleaned up like highway litter

What is a major challenge in managing space debris?

• Excessive funding for space cleanup

• Overpopulation of astronauts

• Lack of international laws

• Too many satellites being recycled

Which orbit is known for having satellites that remain for centuries?

• Low Earth orbit

• Geostationary orbit

• Sun-synchronous orbit

• Polar orbit

What is the 'graveyard orbit' used for?

• Launching new satellites

• Storing operational satellites

• Disposing of defunct satellites

• Observing distant galaxies

What is a current recommendation for low-Earth orbiting spacecraft?

• To be launched from the Moon

• To remain operational indefinitely

• To be painted with reflective material

• To deorbit in under 25 years

What is a proposed solution for managing space debris?

• Building more satellites

• Reducing satellite launches

• Creating international space laws

• Increasing satellite size

What innovative technology could help extend the life of satellites?

• Solar panels

• Space elevators

• Orbital tow trucks

• Lunar bases

Why is it important to manage space debris sustainably?

• To reduce space travel costs

• To ensure safe space exploration

• To increase satellite launches

• To protect Earth's environment