NASA and SpaceX are currently studying ways to modify the reentry process of the Dragon spacecraft to minimize the amount of debris from its trunk section that reaches the ground. Debris from the Dragon spacecraft’s trunk sections, which are discarded before the capsule performs a deorbit burn, has been found in various locations, prompting safety concerns.
Incidents of Debris on Land
Several instances of Dragon trunk debris have been reported:
- Crew-1 Crew Dragon: Debris was discovered in Australia in 2022.
- Ax-3 Crew Dragon: Debris fell in Saskatchewan in February.
- Crew-7 Trunk: Fragments were found in North Carolina in May.
In August 2022, SpaceX’s Benji Reed described the Crew-1 debris incident as an isolated case, stating it was within expected parameters. However, recent findings have prompted NASA and SpaceX to reconsider their approach.
Reevaluating Reentry Procedures
NASA acknowledged that initial studies underestimated the trunk’s potential to survive reentry. “NASA and SpaceX will continue exploring additional solutions as we learn from the discovered debris,” stated NASA. Steve Stich, NASA’s commercial crew program manager, noted that the materials used in the trunk are akin to a thermal protection system, complicating the reentry process.
One proposed solution involves altering the deorbiting procedure. Currently, the trunk is released before the capsule performs its orbit burn, leading to uncontrolled reentries. The new method would involve performing the deorbit burn first and then releasing the trunk, allowing for better control over where the trunk reenters.
“We’re in the process of doing that work right now,” Stich said. This approach, while potentially more effective, poses challenges such as the need for additional propellant and ensuring the trunk can be safely separated after the burn.
Broader Concerns and Legal Implications
The issue of space debris extends beyond the Dragon trunks. For example, a piece of an ISS battery rack reentered uncontrollably on March 8, with part of it hitting a house in Naples, Florida. This incident led to a legal claim against NASA for an estimated $80,000 in damages. Mica Nguyen Worthy, the attorney representing the affected family, emphasized the need for NASA to set a precedent for responsible space operations.
Unique Reactions to Debris
While some view the falling debris as a hazard, others see it as an opportunity. The Crew-7 trunk debris fell on a luxury camping site, The Glamping Collective, which showcased the debris as a unique attraction.
Moving Forward
NASA and SpaceX are committed to improving the safety of their missions by refining their reentry procedures. Ensuring that any surviving debris lands in unpopulated regions remains a top priority as both organizations strive to balance technological advancement with public safety.
