What the space race will do to Canada's environment
Experts call for more research on the impact of rocket launches on the atmosphere.
Rocket launching is an ingenious example of human ingenuity as it propels us into the future. However, along with the development of the industry, there is a growing concern about the lack of research and centralized cooperation.
On March 21, when the remnants of a SpaceX satellite flew over the homes of British Columbia residents, a number of questions came into sharp focus:
— how the products of fuel decomposition affect the environment;
— who will control the consequences of failed launches if they hit another country's territory;
— what will become of the environment once space tourism becomes mainstream.
Space launches are far from uncommon: in 2016, there were about 80; in 2018, about 111. Since then, there have been about 100 launches each year, and as of April 20, there were already 30 launches this year, with half coming from the United States alone.
In 1990, the Montreal Protocol was signed, banning harmful ozone-depleting substances such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) used in refrigerators and air conditioners, after these chemicals were found to deplete the ozone layer. The protocol concerned airlines but did not mention the aerospace industry.
Today, spent rocket engines, failed satellites or collision debris pose a threat to satellites and even the International Space Station. Several space agencies, including NASA, the European Space Agency, as well as private companies, are trying to develop ways to either collect space debris or reduce it.
But now some industry experts are concerned that the lack of oversight will lead to a number of problems.
So far, many Canadian studies have been published in terms of green fuels, including by Quebec-based companies such as Advanced Chemical Synthesis and Manufacturing (ACSYNAM) and Reaction Dynamics.
However, this does not allow to move the hot issues even an inch. All experts and scientists agree on one thing: it is necessary to create an international control body and keep records of all launches.
