SatMagazine
2019 has been an interesting year when it comes to debris and space situational awareness, key focus areas for the Space Data Association (SDA).
While we have been watching from the wings, the organization has also been busy behind the scenes, determining the future of the group and the role it has to play in the future space environment, which is getting more and more complex to manage.
A 10 Year Anniversary
With so many changes and new challenges currently in the satellite environment, it is interesting to note that 2019 marked 10 years since the infamous collision between a Russian military satellite and an Iridium comms bird. The collision destroyed both spacecraft and caused a cloud of more than 2,000 pieces of debris. While this event was obviously catastrophic for both operators and the entire space environment, it did also bring about a positive change in highlighting the need for better tracking data to ensure this collision wouldn’t be repeated again.