How Dangerous Is Space Debris?

Space debris, composed of defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, and fragments from collisions, poses a significant threat to operational spacecraft and future space exploration. The increasing density of debris in low Earth orbit raises the risk of collisions, creating a cascading effect known as the Kessler Syndrome, where collisions generate more debris, further increasing the likelihood of future impacts. This chain reaction could render certain orbital regions unusable for generations. International cooperation and mitigation efforts are crucial to address this growing problem and ensure the sustainable use of space.