Space Industry Pollution

Scientists are raising concerns about harmful pollutants from emissions and waste of rockets and satellites. As more government and private agencies join the new space race, the number of rocket launches around the globe is increasing. Rocket exhaust contains black carbon (soot), which absorbs the sun’s radiation and heats the atmosphere — including the stratosphere, home to the ozone layer that protects us from the sun's harmful radiation.

Although research on the issue is limited, scientists warn that damage to the ozone layer will cause significant harm to the environment and human health. Additional consequences of increasing rocket launch activity include space debris that can fall to earth, damaging property and posing serious public safety risks. Planners should be aware of the potential environmental, health, and safety impacts of the spaceflight industry and the possible fallout for local communities.