We do not realize how dependent we are on satellite technology. But what happens when a satellite becomes inactive? Teens at the club explore to find more information.
Recently, Intelsat 33e satellite that provided broadband communication from a point above the Indian Ocean, experienced a sudden power loss. Soon after, it disintegrated into small pieces adding to the Space Debris problem.
Is Space Debris a source of concern?
Space junk travels at an incredibly fast speed of more than 18,000 mph, almost seven times faster than a bullet. So can have cause considerable damage to any objects it hits.
How serious is the problem?
Satellites play an important role in our daily lives
Broadband communication satellites are what makes communication possible, watch T.V, access internet, and whole lot of other applications.
Satellite technology in general, is indispensable today. Apart from communication it is used for getting directions, detecting underground water sources, predicting weather, etc.Â
If satellites cannot be dispensed with and we need a more sustainable solution to the growing space debris problem on account of defunct satellites, what is the way forward?
On 5th of November, 2024, the world’s first wooden satellite developed by Japanese researchers was launched into space. Wood is expected to fare better in space as there is no water or oxygen. Hence there is no chance of rot and breaking up.
The teens at the Young Writers’ Club were given all the basic required information to understand the nature of the problem. They were then asked to contemplate, research and discuss what could be a good way forward. In addition they had to analyze the feasibility of a wooden satellite.
In order to enable the teens to assume leadership roles and lead a discussion, every week one teen gets assigned to be the facilitator of the discussion. What makes these discussions interesting is the fact that the teens have different interests and strengths. Relying on what they are good at, they try to come up with different perspectives to the problem in hand. While some in the group enjoy science, the others enjoy economics more. Hence in the synopsis below, you will find scientific ideas as well as the cost aspects touched upon.
Here is a synopsis of what they discussed. You will find plenty of examples of critical thinking and imaginative ideas
Methods to stop accumulation of space debris:
1.Minimize single use satellites
2.If not possible make sure that it can be disposed to stop more junk from accumulating
3.Cost is more for single use satellites
4.Equip a rocket with a magnet with large surface area and make it patrol around the earth cleaning up any debris present and letting it burn up on reentry.
Plans in motion:
US is trying to establish a program in NASA to clean up space debris
Private companies are trying to do the same
Alternatives:
Use materials that can not be harmful to space like Kevlar
Thoughts on the wooden satellite
1.Wood- not sustainable since it can burn upÂ
2.More deforestationÂ
The purpose of such discussions is to encourage the teens to stay in tune with the current news, think, analyze information provided and form useful conclusions. Being given a chance to independently discuss there is ample room for the participants to help one another and work together as a team.
If you found this article to be useful and would like similar articles sent to your inbox, click on the button below to stay informed.
Both weekday and weekend batches are available at the Young Readers' Club for the 8-12 age group.
NEW!  Writing programs for the 8-12 age group- Young Writers' Club Jr. Â
The Young Writers' Club program for the 13-15 age group offers a weekly platform to read and discuss curated articles from the news, observe writing approaches and practise one's writing skills.
 NEW! Musings from the Young Writers' Club is an online magazine showcasing the work we do at the Young Writers' Club.
Need more information? Please fill in the contact form below. We will revert asap.
Comments