Scientists call for global consensus on governing Earth’s orbit

An international group of scientists have called for a global consensus on how best to govern Earth’s orbit. There are concerns that the growing number of satellites – expected to increase from 9,000 today to over 60,000 by 2030 – could make large parts of Earth’s orbit unusable. In the experts’ view, an international agreement should include measures for producer and user responsibility for satellites and debris, from launch onwards; consideration should also be given to commercial costs in the context of incentivising accountability. They warn that, unless action is taken immediately, earth’s orbit risks a similar fate as the High Seas due to insubstantial governance that has led to environmental damage.