Forgotten Soviet Venus Probe Stuck in Orbit for 50 Years Now Poses Threat to Earth

Fast Summary

• A Soviet spacecraft intended for Venus has remained stuck in Earth’s orbit for over 50 years.
• The spacecraft, now considered space debris, poses potential risks to satellites and othre space assets, including U.S. infrastructure.
• The current trajectory of the debris may lead to threats regarding safety in near-Earth orbit.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The incident highlights the challenges posed by long-term space debris and its growing threat to global satellite operations. While India does not appear directly affected at this moment, it raises vital questions about enduring practices in space exploration and international cooperation on mitigating orbital risks. With India’s ambitions in space technology advancing-exemplified by missions like Chandrayaan and gaganyaan-the country may have a vested interest in joining efforts toward complete solutions addressing orbital debris management.

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