All Episodes

July 28, 2025 39 mins

Astrophysicist Dr. Jonathan McDowell explains how the ever-growing problem of space junk is threatening satellites, science missions, and even spaceflight as we know it.


In this episode, Jonathan discusses orbital debris, anti-satellite missiles, clean-up efforts, and how one incident could cause a communication blackout for decades. In the lawless realm of low Earth orbit, we could see a future where space exploration comes to a halt altogether. However, some companies are testing solutions that aim to alleviate the problem before it's too late. There is a lot to learn!


Resources:

Chapters:

  • (00:00) - Intro
  • (01:32) - Space Junk Overview
  • (05:11) - Small Debris Damage
  • (07:54) - Aerospace Beginnings
  • (09:37) - Tracking Launches
  • (11:39) - Dodging Debris
  • (15:21) - Anti-Satellite Missiles
  • (20:36) - Space Air Traffic Control
  • (23:27) - Safer Altitudes
  • (24:47) - The End of the ISS
  • (29:17) - How Space Junk is Blocking Research
  • (31:52) - Billboards in Space
  • (33:47) - Satellite Designs
  • (35:05) - Cleaning Up
  • (36:07) - Jonathan's Advice
  • (38:14) - Outro

Mark as Played

Advertise With Us

Popular Podcasts

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!

Stuff You Should Know

Stuff You Should Know

If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.

The Joe Rogan Experience

The Joe Rogan Experience

The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.

Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.