NASA and SpaceX Team Up to Tackle Dragon Spacecraft Debris Issue

NASA and SpaceX are joining forces to address the problem of debris from the Dragon spacecraft’s trunk section surviving re-entry and landing on Earth. This collaboration follows several reports of debris being found in places like Australia, Canada, and North Carolina. Initially, it was believed that the Dragon trunk would completely burn up upon re-entry, but recent findings have shown that this is not always the case.

NASA has admitted that their models for predicting how the trunk would break up during re-entry did not accurately consider the composite materials used in the trunk’s structure. These materials act more like a thermal protection system, which means they don’t burn up as expected.

To solve this issue, NASA and SpaceX are looking into changing the procedures for deorbiting. Right now, the trunk is released before the capsule performs its deorbit burn, which leaves the trunk in orbit for months before it re-enters the atmosphere uncontrollably.

One idea being considered is to perform the deorbit burn with the trunk still attached to the capsule and then separate it in a way that ensures any remaining debris lands in unpopulated areas. This approach has its challenges, such as needing more fuel and precisely timing the trunk’s separation. However, both teams are optimistic that they can find a solution to make SpaceX’s space missions safer and more sustainable.

The issue of space debris has gained more attention recently, especially after a piece of an ISS battery rack crashed through the roof of a house in Florida, causing about $80,000 in damage.

Although no injuries have been reported from the Dragon trunk debris incidents, there are still concerns about the potential risks to property and aviation.

This situation has led to calls for NASA to set an example of responsible and sustainable space operations by compensating victims, even if no fault is found.

NASA has also advised anyone who finds space debris to avoid touching it and to contact local authorities immediately.

(With inputs from agencies)