The Space Show Presents Dr. Siamak Hesar and Araz Feyzi on the Shenzhou-20 Debris Scare, Tuesday, 2-20-26.
Quick Summary:
The Space Show hosted a discussion on the orbital debris problem, focusing on the recent Shenzhou 20 debris scare and its implications for space safety. Araz Feyzi and Siamak Hesar from Kayhan Space explained the challenges of tracking and mitigating space debris, highlighting the need for better coordination between satellite operators and advancements in debris removal technology. They discussed Kayhan Space’s role in providing space traffic coordination services and their recent collaboration with SpaceX’s Stargaze system to enhance debris tracking capabilities. The conversation also touched on the potential risks of Kessler syndrome and the importance of responsible satellite behavior to prevent further debris generation.
Detailed Summary:
The meeting began with introductions and a discussion focusing on the Shenzhou debris scare in low Earth orbit but is not limited to that topic. Our guest Araz explained the orbital debris problem. We addressed the risks and concerns associated with space debris, particularly in the context of recent Chinese human spaceflight missions. The conversation also touched on the business of Kayhan Space and how it relates to addressing these space debris issues.
Araz discussed the rapid growth in satellite launches over the past decade, highlighting the shift from large, expensive government satellites to smaller, affordable commercial ones. He explained the increasing threat of orbital debris, estimating over a million pieces larger than 1 centimeter in diameter, and described a recent incident involving a crack in a Chinese space station caused by debris. David asked about the risks to astronauts during spacewalks and the pressure implications of a cracked space station window, which Siamak addressed by explaining that while spacesuit damage is possible, the probability of collision is low due to the small target area, and the ISS team performs collision avoidance maneuvers when necessary.
The discussion continued to focus on space debris and its potential risks to satellites and astronauts. Araz explained that while some debris can be tracked, there are objects too small to monitor, which pose a risk of causing damage if they strike a satellite or astronaut during a spacewalk. Siamak addressed David’s question about the internal pressure of a spacecraft not causing an explosive depressurization if a window is cracked, noting that spacecraft windows are thick and undergo rigorous testing to prevent such incidents. Araz also described how a crack in a spacecraft window was repaired during a spacewalk after it was struck by an undetectable piece of debris, allowing the crew to safely return to Earth in a different capsule.
The challenges and solutions for orbital debris in low Earth orbit (LEO), highlighting the recent growth of space activity and the need for coordinated efforts to mitigate debris were brought to our attention. Araz emphasized the importance of preventing new debris creation, particularly addressing large, uncontrolled pieces of debris that pose a significant threat if they collide. Siamak noted the recent scale of the problem and mentioned ongoing efforts by companies like Astroscale to develop technologies for debris removal. Both speakers agreed that preventing new debris and managing existing large debris are critical steps toward reducing the orbital debris threat.
Challenges and opportunities related to removing space debris, with Siamak and Araz agreeing that technology exists to de-spin and capture large debris objects but is hampered by regulatory frameworks, were a major part of their talking points. Siamak highlighted the need for legal frameworks to allow commercial companies to address debris while preventing misuse of technology, and Marshall brought up the potential impact of gravitational forces from celestial bodies like Jupiter and asteroids on debris orbits. The conversation concluded with Siamak noting an encouraging trend among satellite operators, who are increasingly prioritizing spaceflight safety in their mission planning and proposals.
The Wisdom Team discussed the Kessler syndrome, a scenario where debris in low Earth orbit could make space travel impossible. John Hunt explained that debris collisions depend on orbital paths, while Siamak recalled a significant collision between a Cosmos and Iridium satellite. Araz highlighted that while some operators like Starlink are taking precautions to avoid creating debris, irresponsible behavior by some companies still exists. The team agreed that while Kessler syndrome is a serious concern, responsible behavior by satellite operators could help prevent it.
Siamak discussed the evolving nature of space debris and conjunctions, noting that while the number of potential collisions between debris and operational satellites remains high, the risk is mitigated by the increasing number of maneuverable satellites actively avoiding collisions. Araz highlighted the importance of coordination between satellite operators to prevent unintended risks, particularly when dealing with maneuverable satellites from different countries, and mentioned that some operators have established guidelines for responsible behavior in space. Both speakers emphasized the need for continued vigilance and collaboration to prevent Kessler syndrome and ensure space flight safety.
The team also discussed space debris and tracking capabilities. Siamak explained that recent advancements in the Space Surveillance Network, including the Space Fence radar, allow for better detection of smaller debris down to 3 centimeters, though tracking remains challenging for low-density objects. They discussed methods for dealing with geostationary satellites at the end of their life, including raising their orbit to a “graveyard” orbit. Araz mentioned that telescopes and passive RF techniques are used to track debris in geostationary orbit, while John Jossy highlighted SpaceX’s new Stargaze system, which significantly increases detection capability through star trackers.
Our two guests announced a new space tracking capability using star trackers, which can monitor approximately 60-70% of objects that radars can track. Araz explained that this technology, developed through a government contract, allows for better space situational awareness by leveraging the numerous star trackers already in orbit, particularly on Starlink satellites. The company, Kayan Space, provides the SATCAT platform which integrates this data with government systems and other tracking sources to help satellite operators safely plan maneuvers, with the ability to automatically generate collision avoidance instructions.
Kayhan Space’s data aggregation platform SATCAT.com, which provides space flight safety services for commercial and government satellites was talked about. Siamak explained that the company is 7 years old and venture-backed, currently focusing on execution and R&D while still raising capital. Araz discussed their tracking capabilities and how multiple tracking systems can provide more accurate data when combined. Our guests said that the company is hiring engineers and marketing/business development staff and is working to coordinate global space traffic through shared intentions and maneuvers between operators.
Special thanks to our sponsors:
American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Helix Space in Luxembourg, Celestis Memorial Spaceflights, Astrox Corporation, Dr. Haym Benaroya of Rutgers University, The Space Settlement Progress Blog by John Jossy, The Atlantis Project, and Artless Entertainment
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