WHEN JUNK GETS OUT OF CONTROL
Imagine what happens when satellites are destroyed and turn into junk orbiting Earth. Then imagine what happens when that junk crashes into other space vehicles and they too turn into junk. This scenario is called Kessler syndrome and is what happens when the amount of space debris in orbit reaches a point where it just creates more and more, which can cause havoc for any space program. It’s named after former NASA scientist Donald Kessler, who described the basic idea in his 1978 paper Collision Frequency of Artificial Satellites: the Creation of a Debris Belt. He and coauthor Burton Cour-palais said the likelihood of satellite collisions would increase as more and more spacecraft were launched. Projects such as the European Space Agency’s Clean Space program are trying to tackle the problem through methods such as the robotic salvage of derelict satellites.
EMITTER ARRAY
The lens focuses the powerful laser onto the orbiting target satellite.
SUPPORT STRUTS
Strong metal support struts provide the mechanism for opening and closing the dome.
BASE STRUCTURE
The base structure provides a platform for the Kalina laser system.
ROTATING PLATFORM
The platform can be rotated to allow the laser to be directed at its target.
PROTECTIVE SHELL
The dome is closed when the laser is not in use to protect it from the elements and damage.
SERVICE WALKWAY
The area where repair crews can carry out maintenance and servicing.