Horizon Season 2015 Episode 6 The Trouble with Space Junk

The Trouble with Space Junk is an episode from the 2015 season of the popular science documentary series Horizon. This episode takes a closer look at the growing problem of space debris - old satellites, discarded rocket stages, and other man-made objects orbiting our planet - and the potential threat it poses to future space missions and our way of life.

Through interviews with experts in the field, the episode explores the extent of the problem, the challenges involved in dealing with it, and the potential consequences of inaction. Viewers are given a glimpse of the tens of thousands of objects currently orbiting the earth, some of which are moving at high speeds and have the potential to cause catastrophic damage to spacecraft and satellites.

The episode also highlights the various efforts underway to tackle the problem, from developing new technologies for tracking and removing space debris, to devising international guidelines and regulations for managing it. Viewers are introduced to researchers and engineers working on novel solutions, such as laser-based systems for pushing debris out of orbit, harpoons for capturing it, and giant nets for scooping it up.

But as the show explores, the challenges involved in dealing with space junk are considerable. For one thing, the scale of the problem is daunting, with new objects being added to the debris field every year. Moreover, the cost and technical complexity of developing effective debris removal methods can be prohibitive, and there are concerns about the potential for unintended consequences or collateral damage with some of the proposed solutions.

Another issue explored in the episode is the broader societal impact of space debris. With our increasing reliance on space-based technology for communication, navigation, and weather forecasting, the potential loss of critical satellites or the generation of a cascade of debris from a single collision could have serious implications for our everyday lives. The episode examines the ways in which governments and private industry are adapting to this new reality, and the measures being taken to mitigate the risks.

Overall, The Trouble with Space Junk is an informative and thought-provoking look at a critical issue facing our planet. With stunning visuals and expert commentary, the show makes a strong case for why we need to take the problem of space debris seriously, and the urgent need for coordinated global action to address it. Whether you're a space enthusiast, a science buff, or just someone interested in the challenges facing our world, this episode is well worth checking out.