NASA | Fermi's Close Call with a Soviet Satellite

The video discusses the challenges of space debris and the potential collision risks it poses to active spacecraft. It highlights the Fermi telescope's role in observing gamma rays and a specific incident involving a defunct Russian satellite threatening Fermi's orbit. The team had to decide between two risks: a collision or a propulsion system failure. They executed a successful collision avoidance maneuver, ensuring the continuation of Fermi's mission.

What was the initial reaction to the news of a potential collision with a defunct satellite?

Describe the types of objects that are orbiting the Earth as mentioned in the text.

What was the main concern regarding the two spacecraft mentioned in the text?

Explain the basics of the collision avoidance maneuver described in the text.

What was the outcome after the maneuver was completed?