10 Astounding Facts You Didn't Know About Space Travel

7. The Environmental Impact: Preserving the Cosmic Commons

As we extend our reach into space, it becomes increasingly important to consider the environmental impact of our activities. Space debris, or "space junk," is a growing threat to manned and unmanned missions. The accumulation of defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, and other debris in Earth's orbit increases the risk of collisions, which can create even more debris in a dangerous feedback loop. Efforts to mitigate this threat include the development of technologies for debris removal and implementing guidelines for sustainable space operations. As we look to the future, preserving the cosmic commons will require international cooperation and a commitment to responsible stewardship.