A misconception about #spacedebris mitigation, is that the hazard is removed if a spacecraft follows the so-called "25-year rule." Leaving satellites in orbit, even for a short time, exposes them to risk. We need to start thinking about "leaving no trace" (see tweets by @nmpanek)
In a future where our space activity sees a step change over what we have seen in the past, leaving no trace is probably the only way to achieve #spacesustainability
We are starting to see unintended consequences coming from our best #spacedebris countermeasures; consequences that undermine efforts to address the problem. Switching to a "leave no trace" approach will help to avoid those issues.
What's great about "leave no trace" is that it is simple to understand. It might be difficult to implement at first, but we have an understanding of a range of methods that can help: #spacedebris removal, direct de-orbit, and in-orbit servicing (see @nmpanek tweets again)
We need to stop thinking, "how long can I leave my satellite in-orbit?" and arguing about the merits of 5 years versus 25 years. Instead, we need to think about what action we can take to leave the orbital environment in the same condition we found it.
If you will be attending the International Orbital Debris Conference in Sugar Land next month, it would be great to hear your thoughts about this, and other topics.
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