In a recent statement, Najla Al-Ahmadi, the director of exploration technology projects at the Saudi Space Agency, highlighted the critical issue of space debris, consisting of human-made objects like inactive satellites or parts of launch vehicles orbiting Earth. With over 2,000 inactive satellites cluttering the Earth’s orbit, Al-Ahmadi emphasizes the urgent need for innovative solutions to ensure the sustainability of the space environment and Earth’s protection. This initiative aligns with the pillars of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy, focusing on securing a sustainable future for the space economy by addressing and mitigating the risks posed by space debris, which not only threaten space missions but also the safety of our planet.
Al-Ahmadi estimates that the size of the debris ranges significantly, with most pieces larger than 10 centimeters, totaling between 34,000 and 1,000,000 objects surrounding Earth. In response, Riyadh has galvanized global attention through the “Space Debris Conference,” aiming to bolster international cooperation and awareness of the challenges posed by space debris. The conference underscores Saudi Arabia’s leadership role in fostering global dialogue, communication, and partnership among international, regional, and local entities within the space sector, further establishing a collaborative platform to combat this pressing issue.
This move by the Saudi Space Agency represents a crucial step towards safeguarding the global space economy’s future, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices in space exploration and utilization. By pioneering efforts to address the growing concern of space debris, Saudi Arabia positions itself as a key player in promoting the safety and longevity of space activities, ensuring the well-being of our planet and beyond.
