Scientists have a made new discovery which can help keep the satellites and space debris from colliding.
Half a million objects, including debris, satellites, and the International Space Station, orbit the planet in the thermosphere, the largest layer of Earth's atmosphere.
Researchers, who analyzed the role that gravitational effect of the Moon have on the thermosphere, found that satellites taking different paths around the planet-circling over the poles, around the equator, or any route in between-would experience different levels of lunar-induced drag. Incorporating these results in current atmospheric models could refine the accuracy of orbital predictions, thus keeping satellites and space junk on separate paths.
Jesse Zhang, lead author of the Space Weather paper said that they continue to be surprised and fascinated by the different pathways that connect the lower atmosphere to space weather.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
