Read the mission notes

Objects sent into space can stop working, break apart, or leave pieces behind. These human-made objects are called space debris, or space junk. Most tracked debris travels very fast around Earth. Even a small piece can damage a working satellite if they collide. Scientists use radar and telescopes to track larger pieces and estimate their paths. Not every tiny piece can be tracked. When a satellite is designed to leave orbit, engineers may plan for it to burn up in the atmosphere or fall into a remote part of the ocean. Earth’s atmosphere protects us from many small objects, but some larger pieces can survive the journey. Atmospheric drag and changing conditions can affect a piece’s path, making its exact landing place hard to predict. Official agencies share safety information when needed. Satellites help people with weather forecasts, communication, navigation, and observing Earth.