Holzinger Interviewed by PBS News Hour on Space Junk

The Problem of Space Junk

Space junk is a growing problem. Every time a rocket is launched, it leaves behind debris in orbit around Earth. This debris can range in size from tiny pieces of paint to large rocket boosters. There are currently over 29,000 pieces of trackable space junk orbiting Earth, and that number is only growing.

Space junk poses a number of risks. It can collide with satellites, causing them to malfunction or even be destroyed. It can also pose a hazard to astronauts, who could be injured or killed if they are hit by a piece of space junk.

Holzinger's Research

Dr. Jennifer Holzinger is a research scientist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. She has been studying the problem of space junk for over a decade. Her research has focused on developing new ways to track and remove space junk from orbit.

In a recent interview with PBS News Hour, Holzinger discussed the problem of space junk and her research to address it. She explained that the current methods for tracking and removing space junk are not adequate. She also discussed the need for international cooperation to address the problem of space junk.

The Way Forward

The problem of space junk is a serious one, but it is not insurmountable. With continued research and international cooperation, we can develop new ways to track and remove space junk from orbit. By doing so, we can protect our satellites, astronauts, and the future of space exploration.

Here are some steps that can be taken to address the problem of space junk:

• Increase funding for research into new technologies for tracking and removing space junk.
• Develop international agreements to regulate the disposal of space junk.
• Encourage the use of sustainable practices in space, such as using reusable rockets and satellites.