On October 12, 2023, the United States Federal Communications Commission (FCC) fined Dish Network $150,000 for "failing to properly deorbit" a satellite called EchoStar-7. This was the first fine of its kind in history, and has marked an important step in the fight against space pollution.
The EchoStar-7 was launched in 2002 and operated for 11 years. In 2013, Dish Network removed it from service and moved it to a graveyard orbit, where satellites are dropped to disintegrate in the atmosphere. However, EchoStar-7 stayed in a lower orbit than planned, making it a potential threat to other satellites.
The FCC determined that Dish Network was responsible for the orbit of EchoStar-7 and that the company had violated FCC rules on space debris disposal. The $150,000 fine was a clear message that the FCC takes space pollution seriously.
We must be aware that our planet is surrounded by space debris, which comes from all the satellites that have been launched into space for dozens of years, and that more are launched every day.
Space pollution is a growing problem that threatens the safety of space operations. Orbiting space objects, such as satellites, rockets, and debris, can collide with each other, creating more debris. This debris can damage or destroy satellites, potentially disrupting communication, navigation, and Earth observation services.
Currently, there are more than 30,000 tracked space objects in orbit, and it is estimated that there are millions of smaller objects that are too small to be tracked. These objects represent a significant threat to space operations.
The fine (albeit small) to Dish Network is an important step in the fight against space pollution. It is the first time that a company has been sanctioned for not removing space debris properly. This fine sends a clear message to space companies that they must take steps to reduce their impact in space.
The Dish Network fine is also a recognition of the growing importance of space pollution. As more companies and governments become involved in space activities, space pollution will be an even bigger problem.
At the international level, rules and regulations should be created for the elimination of space debris, guaranteeing that companies and governments take measures to reduce their impact in space, and harshly sanctioning those who do not do so.
By taking measures to reduce space pollution, we are protecting space for future generations.
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