How much junk is in orbit around the Earth?
Ever since we started going into space, we have been leaving behind bits of orbiting debris. Today, there are known to be about 9,000 pieces of orbiting junk larger than ten centimeters (4″), and it is estimated that there are more than 100,000 pieces between 1 cm (3/8″) and 10 cm. There are probably tens of millions of particles smaller than one centimeter. Debris impacts are a serious problem for spacecraft in Earth orbit. With an average collision speed of around ten kilometers per second (22,000 mph), even a tiny particle can cause great damage. Current practices are aimed at limiting the amount of new debris, but existing space junk will remain in orbit for many years. Modern spacecraft like the International Space Station are heavily shielded against debris impacts. What moon of Jupiter has auroras? Jupiter is not the only body in the Jovian system that has an atmosphere with auroral displays. Brilliant, colorful auroras also happen over its moon Io. These are very exotic auroras
