Satellites May Be Driving a Concerning New Form of Atmospheric Pollution
2 days ago
- #Upper Atmosphere
- #Climate Impact
- #Satellite Pollution
- Satellites and rocket launches are causing significant upper-atmosphere pollution, with a climate impact 500 times greater than ground-based emissions.
- Carbon soot from reentering rocket bodies and dead satellites lingers longer in the upper atmosphere, exacerbating environmental effects compared to lower atmosphere pollutants.
- By the end of the decade, satellite megaconstellations are projected to account for nearly half of this pollution, potentially blocking sunlight akin to geoengineering projects.
- Rocket launches also release chlorine, harming the ozone layer, though this impact is less severe than carbon soot, and some future launches may eliminate chlorine emissions.
- Researchers warn that this unregulated pollution could lead to unintended environmental consequences, emphasizing the need for early action before it becomes irreversible.