The demise of just one Gen1 Starlink satellite produces about 30 kilograms (66 pounds) of aluminum oxide, a compound that eats away at the ozone layer. A new study finds these oxides have increased 8-fold between 2016 and 2022, and the recent surge is increasing the pollution even more.
More details would be nice. Does it really have a measurable effect on the ozone layer?
On the bright side, each reentry produces a beautiful fireball–and the odds are increasing that you’ll see one.
More details would be nice. Does it really have a measurable effect on the ozone layer?
Huh.