Science Quiz On Space Debris With Answers


Space Junk Science Quiz and Answers

Q1: Which of the following is the main source of space junk?

a) Natural space rocks

b) Deactivated satellites

c) Alien spacecraft

d) Solar flares

Answer: b) Deactivated satellite

Explanation: The main source of space junk is abandoned satellites. When satellites reach the end of their useful life, they are often left in orbit, exacerbating the space junk problem. These abandoned satellites can collide with other objects, creating more debris and increasing the risk of further collisions.

Question 2: What term is used to describe the phenomenon whereby collisions of space debris create more debris and lead to a chain reaction?

a) Domino Effect

b) Kessler syndrome

c) Newton’s cradle

d) Chain reaction

Answer: b) Kessler syndrome

Explanation: Kessler syndrome describes a chain reaction in which collisions between space junk objects create more debris, leading to further collisions. This self-sustaining chain reaction could render certain orbits unusable and pose serious challenges to space operations.

Question 3: How many pieces of space junk larger than 10 cm are currently in Earth orbit?

a) 5,000

b) 10,000

c) 20,000

d) 30,000

Answer: d) 30,000

Explanation: There are currently about 30,000 pieces of space junk larger than 10 centimeters in Earth orbit. These objects include defunct satellites, discarded rocket stages, and debris from previous collisions or explosions, all of which pose a significant risk to active satellites and spacecraft.

Question 4: What are the main methods currently used to reduce the risk of space debris collisions?

a) Magnetic shielding

b) Space lasers

c) Mobile satellite

d) Solar sails

Answer: c) Mobile satellite

Explanation: The primary way to reduce the risk of collisions with space junk is to maneuver satellites. When a potential collision is detected, satellite operators can change the satellite’s orbit to avoid impact. This requires precise tracking and timely decision-making to ensure the safety of active satellites.

Q5: What measures has the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) taken to deal with space junk?

a) Aditya Project

b) NETRA Project

c) Asteroid Program

d) Chandra Project

Answer: b) NETRA Project

Explanation: ISRO launched the NETRA project (Network for Space Object Tracking and Analysis) in September 2019 to tackle the space junk problem. The initiative aims to enhance India’s capabilities to track and monitor space junk to protect India’s space assets. By developing an advanced tracking system, ISRO can better predict potential collisions and take necessary steps to mitigate the risks associated with space junk.

Also read: Why are there stones on the railway tracks?

Question 6: What is the typical velocity of space debris in Low Earth Orbit (LEO)?

a) 1000 km/h

b) 10,000 km/h

c) 28,000 km/h

d) 50,000 km/h

Answer: c) 28,000 km/h

Explanation: Space junk in low Earth orbit (LEO) typically travels at speeds of about 28,000 kilometers per hour (17,500 miles per hour). At such high speeds, even small pieces of debris can cause serious damage to satellites and spacecraft.

Question 7: Which country conducted the first anti-satellite missile test, generating a large amount of space debris?

a) United States

b) Russia

c) China

d) India

Answer: a) United States

Explanation: On September 13, 1985, the United States conducted its first anti-satellite missile test, a project called “IS Project”. In this test, a modified ASM-135 ASAT missile was launched from an F-15 fighter jet and destroyed the Solwind P78-1 satellite in low Earth orbit (LEO). This test created a large amount of space debris and highlighted the potential risks of anti-satellite activities.

Q8: Which international forum issued the Space Debris Mitigation Guidelines, which include 25-year rules for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) objects?

a) United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA)

b) International Astronomical Union (IAU)

European Space Agency (ESA)

d) Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC)

Answer: d) Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC)

Explanation: The Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC) publishes Space Debris Mitigation Guidelines, which include measures such as the 25-year rule for objects in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The 25-year rule states that payloads or rocket bodies in the LEO protected area should limit their post-mission existence to a maximum of 25 years after the end of their useful life. This measure is intended to reduce the risk of collisions and accumulation of space debris by ensuring that defunct objects do not remain in orbit indefinitely. Objects used for scientific research or other specific purposes are exempt from this rule.

Q9: What technology will the ClearSpace-1 spacecraft use to capture orbiting space junk?

a) Laser beam

b) Magnetic field generator

c) Robotic Arm

d) Ion propulsion system

Answer: c) Robotic arm

Description: The European Space Agency (ESA) is leading the ClearSpace-1 mission, which aims to capture and process a piece of orbital debris using innovative robotic technology. ClearSpace-1 will use a robotic arm to capture a specific piece of orbital space debris, demonstrating ESA’s efforts to advance clean space initiatives.

Q10: What does the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) require geostationary orbit (GEO) satellites to do at the end of their operational life?

a) Return to the Earth’s surface

b) Move to a higher orbit, called a “graveyard” orbit

c) Stay in GEO permanently

d) Space self-destruction

Answer: b) Move to a higher orbit, called a “graveyard” orbit

Explanation: The FCC requires that satellites in geostationary orbit (GEO) be moved to a higher orbit, a so-called “graveyard” orbit, at the end of their useful life. This rule helps reduce space junk and ensures safer operations in the Earth’s orbital environment.

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