ISRO Skillfully Avoided 23 Potential Satellite Collisions in 2023, Report Reveals

Earth's orbit saw a major traffic spike in 2023! A new report from the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) reveals 3,143 new satellites and pieces of debris were added to space last year. This increasing congestion underscores the growing challenges of operating safely and responsibly in orbit.

The report, Isro's Space Situational Assessment Report (ISSAR), details how the agency successfully dodged 23 potential collisions with its satellites. This marks a record number of close calls, highlighting the risks posed by the increasingly crowded environment.

While no collisions occurred, Isro's vigilance and precise tracking helped prevent incidents that could have damaged or destroyed valuable space assets. The report calls for international coordination to develop better guidelines for managing space traffic and avoiding dangerous situations.

As more countries and companies launch satellites, the problem of orbital congestion is only going to intensify. Mega constellations, plans for space tourism, and other ambitious projects will add even more objects to the mix. Isro's report highlights the urgent need for global cooperation and investment in innovative technologies for tracking and managing space debris to ensure a safe and sustainable environment for space activities.