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FAA Proposes Rule to Limit Commercial Space Vehicles Debris

The notice of proposed rulemaking focuses on how commercial operators will be required to dispose of the upper stages of their launch vehicles.

SpaceX’s Starship rocket stands ready for launch ahead of April’s test flight. [Credit: SpaceX]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The FAA has proposed a new rule to limit new orbital debris from commercial space vehicles.
  • The rule aims to reduce collision risks, promote a sustainable space environment, and mitigate hazards to people on the ground due to the increasing amount of space junk.
  • It specifically focuses on requiring commercial operators to dispose of launch vehicle upper stages, outlining five potential disposal options.
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Editor’s note: This article first appeared on AVweb.com.

The FAA has proposed a rule designed to limit new orbital debris from commercial space vehicles, citing the need to “reduce the potential for collisions with spacecraft and satellites to promote a sustainable space environment.”

Kate O'Connor

Kate is a private pilot, certificated aircraft dispatcher, and graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

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