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Evolution of Space Traffic and Space Traffic Management

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Handbook of Space Security

Abstract

In 2016, the notion that the local space environment would continue to evolve at rates defined by previous satellite launch histories changed dramatically when SpaceX requested permission to place over 4400 satellites in low Earth orbits. Prior to that time, predictions were that the space environment could be stabilized by space operators abiding by rules and guidelines designed to limit the growth of debris. While all proposed satellites might not be realized, major changes in the near-space environment are coming and may come quickly. This chapter provides background, discusses potential changes, and highlights new polices and services that could arise.

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Correspondence to William Ailor .

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Ailor, W. (2020). Evolution of Space Traffic and Space Traffic Management. In: Schrogl, KU. (eds) Handbook of Space Security. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-23210-8_88

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