Space debris has been increasing rapidly since the start of the Space Age, which began in 1957 with the launch by the Soviet Union of the first satellite—Sputnik 1.
Only in the last 15 years has the international community recognized this increase as a growing threat to satellites. During that time, space-faring countries have developed a set of guidelines intended to limit the production of debris.
As these two slideshows illustrate, much more work needs to be done.
Downloads
Related resources
Activist Resource
An Activist's Guide to Radiation and Human Health
Essential readings for understanding the world of radiation, radioactive materials, and the threats they pose to human health
Activist Resource
The Language of Radiation: A Glossary
This glossary is intended to help advocates navigate the technical language of nuclear weapons and, specifically, radiation and human health outcomes.
Explainer
How Radiation Interacts with the Human Body
Radiation is absorbed by humans in many ways, and can harm the human body in the short and long term.
Explainer
Health Impacts of Radiation Exposure
Radiation is associated with a wide range of adverse health outcomes, including acute radiation sickness, burns, cancer, cardiovascular disease, or even death.