On September 7, 2021, China launched the first 18 satellites for the Qianfan broadband network using a Long March 6A rocket. However, the launch did not go as planned, as the upper stage of the rocket broke apart, creating a cloud of debris in low Earth orbit (LEO). This incident has resulted in over 300 pieces of trackable debris, which could pose a significant threat to other space objects in LEO.
The launch of the Qianfan broadband network was a significant milestone for China’s space program, as it marked the first time that the country had launched a large-scale satellite constellation. The Qianfan network is designed to provide high-speed internet access to remote areas of China, and it is expected to be fully operational by 2022.
However, the incident has raised concerns about the potential impact of space debris on other space objects in LEO. Space debris is a significant problem for space agencies around the world, as it can pose a threat to satellites, spacecraft, and even astronauts. The debris generated by the Long March 6A rocket could remain in orbit for years, increasing the risk of collisions with other space objects.
The incident highlights the importance of adherence to existing space debris mitigation guidelines. Space agencies around the world have developed guidelines to minimize the amount of debris generated by space launches and to ensure that any debris that is generated is tracked and monitored. However, these guidelines are not always followed, and incidents like the one involving the Long March 6A rocket highlight the need for greater adherence to these guidelines.
In addition to adherence to existing guidelines, the incident also highlights the need for robust space domain awareness capabilities. Space domain awareness refers to the ability to track and monitor objects in space, including debris. This capability is essential for ensuring the safety of space operations and for minimizing the risk of collisions between space objects.
Overall, the incident involving the Long March 6A rocket highlights the importance of responsible space operations and the need for greater adherence to existing space debris mitigation guidelines. As the number of satellites and other space objects in orbit continues to increase, it is essential that space agencies around the world work together to ensure the safety and sustainability of space operations.
