What characterizes the objects between 1 cm and 10 cm regarding tracking and collision risk?
Answer
Objects too small to be reliably tracked but large enough to cause substantial damage
The size range spanning from one centimeter to ten centimeters represents a critical gap in tracking capabilities, yet these objects pose a severe threat profile. Current tracking systems cannot reliably monitor the vast number of items in this range. However, their size is still sufficient that impact would lead to substantial system damage, distinguishing them from the microscopic particles. Because of their high number and tracking limitations, they are considered an unavoidable statistical risk that mission planners must account for, even if individual trajectories cannot be predicted with certainty.
Related Questions
What is the primary criterion defining an object as space debris?How does NASA focus its intense tracking efforts regarding space debris size?What kinetic threat is represented by a debris piece just one centimeter across at orbital velocity?What differentiates 'space debris' from 'meteoroids' in official categorization?What is the approximate velocity objects in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) often exceed?Which debris category is characterized by high quantity but is generally not cataloged?What is the primary mechanism associated with the Kessler Syndrome concern?What examples of operational debris arise from routine use other than spent rocket bodies?What operational challenge defines when a structurally sound satellite becomes classified as long-term debris?What characterizes the objects between 1 cm and 10 cm regarding tracking and collision risk?