The Growing Problem of Space Debris: In other words the problem of space debris or space junk is not only a problem of orbiting around the Earth but a problem on the ground as well. As for the recent accidents, a Florida’s family had their home struck by the fragment of the International Space Station (ISS). The debris, a 2. subsequently, a nine ton pallet of used batteries fell through the front porch of another resident, Alejandro Otero in Naples, Florida on March 8.
Details of the Incident:
- Damage: I knew that space debris was dangerous but to see it rip through the roof and two floors of the house with the aim of the little boy, Otero’s son in sight, was terrifying.
Source Confirmation: NASA determined that the debris came from the ISS and was planned to self-ignite re-entering the earth’s atmosphere.
Family's Response:
- Claim Filed: NASA has been informed and the Otero family is seeking for compensation.
- Legal Standpoint: Mica Nguyen Worthy who represents the family with regard to the law approved the view saying that in case the debris initiated the disaster in another country NASA would be responsible under the Space Liability Convention. They claimed that this policy should also hold within the U. S.
Broader Implications: - Setting a Precedent: This case can be a precedent for how governments and private enterprises of space exploration will pay for space debris damages.
Previous Incidents: Other recent recorded space debris fall incidents include the parts from SpaceX Dragon trunk that fell in Canada and North Carolina, and piece of an ISRO rocket that landed on an Australian beach. - NASA's Opportunity: “NASA has a chance to establish a precedent of safe and sound extra-legal astronomical actions by paying the Oteros,” Worthy said. This could send a very powerful signal to both the governments and private industries as to the need to account for the happenings in the space activities.