literature on space sustainability

Space sustainability involves maintaining the long-term usability of Earth's orbit by managing debris and preventing environmental harm. As more satellites and spacecraft are launched, space debris—non-functional fragments—accumulates, risking collisions and disrupting activities like communication and navigation. To address this, experts promote responsible practices such as designing satellites to deorbit at the end of their lifespan, improving tracking of debris, and developing rules for space activities. Ensuring space remains a safe, accessible area benefits science, technology, and the global economy, much like maintaining sustainable practices on Earth to protect the environment for future generations.