The Age of Space Management: Navigating the Cosmos Responsibly.

As the space industry continues to thrive, the issue of space debris is becoming increasingly severe on a global scale. The U.S. federal government has made history by imposing fines on companies grappling with this issue. According to CNN, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has fined Dish Network, a U.S. satellite and cable broadcasting company, $150,000 (approximately 200 million won) for failing to properly dispose of one of the satellites they launched.

 

This decision is a significant event in the space industry, highlighting a new awareness of the issue of space debris alongside vigorous competition in the field.

 

The satellite in question, named "EchoStar-7," was placed in orbit approximately 36,000 kilometers above the Earth's surface in 2002. Dish Network had obtained approval to dispose of EchoStar-7 at an altitude 186 miles (about 300 kilometers) higher than its operational position to prevent collisions with other satellites once it had completed its mission. However, due to insufficient remaining fuel, EchoStar-7 continued to travel an additional 122 kilometers before coming to a halt when its operational life ended in 2022.

 

As a result, EchoStar-7 became space debris, perpetually orbiting the Earth and increasing the risk of collisions with other satellites. In response to this, the FCC deemed it a violation of relevant regulations and stated, "Space debris poses an increased risk to the integrity of the nation's satellite communication system, so operators holding artificial satellite licenses must adhere to the disposal procedures approved after the mission."

 

This decision is a significant event in the space industry, highlighting a new awareness of the issue of space debris alongside vigorous competition in the field. The U.S. government underscores the importance of strict regulations and disposal procedures regarding the problem of space debris. These measures provide a vital lesson for all companies engaged in space exploration and activities. The space industry is expected to grow even faster in the future, making it increasingly important to address the issue of space debris responsibly.