Science Quiz On Space Debris With Answers

Space debris, often referred to as space junk, has become a growing concern for scientists and space agencies around the world. This quiz aims to test your knowledge about the fascinating and sometimes alarming facts surrounding space debris.

From defunct satellites to tiny fragments of spacecraft, space debris poses significant risks to operational satellites and future space missions. Understanding the causes, consequences, and management of space debris is crucial for ensuring the safety and sustainability of space activities.

What is Space Junk (Debris) and why is it a global threat?

Dive into this Science quiz to see how much you know about the bits and pieces orbiting our planet and their impact on space exploration and technology.

Science Quiz With Answers: Space Debris

Q1: Which of the following is the primary source of space debris?

a) Natural space rocks

b) Defunct satellites

c) Alien spacecraft

d) Solar flares

Answer: b) Defunct satellites

Explanation: The primary source of space debris is defunct satellites. When satellites reach the end of their operational life, they often remain in orbit, contributing to the growing problem of space debris. These inactive satellites can collide with other objects, creating more debris and increasing the risk of further collisions.

Q2: What term is used to describe the phenomenon where space debris collisions generate more debris, leading to a cascading effect?

a) Domino Effect

b) Kessler Syndrome

c) Newton's Cradle

d) Chain Reaction

Answer: b) Kessler Syndrome

Explanation: The Kessler Syndrome describes a scenario where collisions between space debris objects generate additional debris, leading to a cascading effect of further collisions. This self-sustaining chain reaction could make certain orbits unusable and pose severe challenges for space operations.

Q3: Approximately how many pieces of space debris larger than 10 cm are currently being tracked in Earth's orbit?

a) 5,000

b) 10,000

c) 20,000

d) 30,000

Answer: d) 30,000

Explanation: There are currently around 30,000 pieces of space debris larger than 10 cm being tracked in Earth's orbit. These objects include defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, and fragments from previous collisions or explosions, all of which pose significant risks to active satellites and spacecraft.

Q4: What is the primary method currently used to mitigate the risk of space debris collisions?

a) Magnetic shields

b) Space lasers

c) Manoeuvring satellites

d) Solar sails

Answer: c) Manoeuvring satellites

Explanation: The primary method used to mitigate the risk of space debris collisions is manoeuvring satellites. When a potential collision is detected, satellite operators can alter the satellite's orbit to avoid impact. This requires precise tracking and timely decision-making to ensure the safety of active satellites.

Q5: What initiative has ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) taken to address space debris?

a) Project Aditya

b) Project NETRA

c) Project Asteroid

d) Project Chandra

Answer: b) Project NETRA

Explanation: ISRO launched Project NETRA (Network for Space Object Tracking and Analysis) in September 2019 to address the issue of space debris. This initiative aims to enhance India's capabilities in tracking and monitoring space debris to safeguard Indian space assets. By developing sophisticated tracking systems, ISRO can better predict potential collisions and take necessary actions to mitigate risks associated with space debris.

Also read: Why Are There Stones On Railway Tracks?

Q6: What is the typical speed of space debris in Low Earth Orbit (LEO)?

a) 1,000 km/h

b) 10,000 km/h

c) 28,000 km/h

d) 50,000 km/h

Answer: c) 28,000 km/h

Explanation: Space debris in the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) typically travels at speeds of around 28,000 kilometres per hour (17,500 miles per hour). At these high velocities, even small pieces of debris can cause significant damage to satellites and spacecraft.

Q7: Which country conducted the first anti-satellite missile test, creating significant space debris?

a) United States

b) Russia

c) China

d) India

Answer: a) United States

Explanation: The United States conducted the first anti-satellite missile test on September 13, 1985, under a program known as "Project IS". During this test, a modified ASM-135 ASAT missile was launched from an F-15 aircraft to destroy the Solwind P78-1 satellite in the Low Earth Orbit (LEO). This test generated significant space debris, highlighting the potential risks associated with anti-satellite activities.

Q8: Which international forum published the Space Debris Mitigation Guidelines, including the 25-year rule for objects in Low Earth Orbit (LEO)?

a) United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA)

b) International Astronomical Union (IAU)

c) European Space Agency (ESA)

d) Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC)

Answer: d) Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC)

Explanation: The Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC) published the Space Debris Mitigation Guidelines, which include measures like the 25-year rule for objects in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The 25-year rule stipulates that payloads or rocket bodies in the LEO Protected region should limit their post-mission presence to a maximum of 25 years from the end of their operational life. This measure aims to reduce the risk of collisions and the accumulation of space debris by ensuring that defunct objects do not remain in orbit indefinitely. Exceptions to this rule may be granted for objects used for scientific research or other specific purposes.

Q9: What technology will the ClearSpace-1 spacecraft use to capture orbiting space debris?

a) Laser beam

b) Magnetic field generator

c) Robotic arm

d) Ion propulsion system

Answer: c) Robotic arm

Explanation: The European Space Agency (ESA) is leading the ClearSpace-1 mission, which aims to capture and dispose of a piece of orbital debris using innovative robotic technology. ClearSpace-1 will utilize a robotic arm to capture a specific piece of orbiting space debris, demonstrating ESA's efforts to advance clean space initiatives.

Q10: What does the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) require satellites in Geostationary Orbit (GEO) to do at the end of their operational life?

a) Return to Earth's surface

b) Move to a higher orbit called the 'graveyard' orbit

c) Remain in GEO permanently

d) Self-destruct in space

Answer: b) Move to a higher orbit called the 'graveyard' orbit

Explanation: The FCC mandates that satellites in Geostationary Orbit (GEO) must move to a higher orbit, known as the 'graveyard' orbit at the end of their operational life. This rule helps reduce space debris and ensures safer operations in Earth's orbital environment.

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