Quote of the Week

 “Our Nation’s motto — ‘In God We Trust’ — was not chosen lightly. It reflects a

basic recognition that there is a divine authority in the universe to which this

nation owes homage.” – Ronald Reagan

Space Litter

Space Traffic

Last Wednesday, (February 11, 2009) two satellites collided above Siberia. Each Satellite weighed over 1000 pounds, creating a debris field that is endangering many other orbiting assets including the Hubble Telescope. The speed of orbiting assets is roughly 18,000 mph. The average muzzle velocity of a rifle bullet is about 2,000 mph, or one ninth the speed of orbiting objects.

This is a growing problem that already endangers objects passing through this ever expanding debris field. Additionally, both China and the US have exacerbated the problem by destroying orbiting satellites with missiles. Without a doubt space debris is going to take a toll on future space programs.

From a terrestrial perspective, on the other hand, we’re apt to see colorful light shows in the night skies as pieces of space debris enter the atmosphere. Unfortunately some of the larger junk will fall to earth. Hopefully none of the hazardous materials contained in some satellites will hit population centers.

On rare occasions pilots have reported seeing debris passing in the proximity of their aircraft. Something to think about on your next flight!

Eventually, earth will take on a different look from outer space as rings of debris will evolve, resembling Saturn’s rings.

Jesus spoke about a time in the last days when the stars shall fall from the sky.  “Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken.”  – Matthew  24:29; cf Mark 13:25; Luke 21:25.  John also described this event in Revelation 6:13 – “And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind.”

Could it be that solar wind will push some of this space debris into the earths atmosphere having the visual effect John spoke of? 

 

 

Keep looking up.