SpaceX's Starlit Disruption: Unveiling the Ionospheric Impact of Rocket Launches

Photo Source - Google

On July 19, SpaceX launched 15 Starlink satellites using a Falcon 9 rocket, potentially impacting Earth's ionosphere.

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The ionosphere, essential for communication and navigation, can be disrupted by such activities, affecting radio and GPS signals.

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The SpaceX launch led to a temporary ionosphere recombination, evidenced by a visible night-sky red glow.

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Falcon 9's engines discharge water and CO2, lowering local ionisation by up to 70% and causing a red light.

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Ionospheric holes' effects are usually brief, impacting radio communication and GPS navigation until reionisation at sunrise.

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A similar ionospheric hole persisted for a few hours after a 2017 Falcon 9 launch.

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The Falcon 9, with 240 launches and 198 landings, is a cornerstone of modern space travel.

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Earth's ionosphere, where many satellites including the International Space Station orbit, overlaps with the top of the atmosphere and space's start.

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Despite potential ionospheric disruptions, SpaceX and others press on with space exploration, underlining the need for balance between scientific progress and environmental preservation.

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