Space Debris
Your mission: Just like astronauts who sometimes have to avoid space debris, you will become aware of human-caused pollution in space and develop a solution for this growing problem.
This resource was created by Space Expo, Netherlands 2025

Space debris consists of any human-made objects in Earth’s orbit that are no longer operational. This often includes defunct satellites or discarded rocket stages, but sometimes even small fragments of metal or paint. Satellites are rarely retrieved when they stop working, and some even become uncontrollable from Earth, increasing the risk of collisions. These collisions, in turn, generate even more space debris, potentially leading to a chain reaction of crashes in orbit. To prevent this, fewer objects should be launched in the first place, but space activities must also become more sustainable by reusing components wherever possible. Additionally, space debris needs to be actively removed. In the meantime, the International Space Station (ISS) sometimes has to adjust its altitude to avoid debris, and astronauts must be ready to take shelter in their return capsule if necessary.
Awareness, Sustainability, Collaboration
Understand how humans have polluted, and continue to pollute, space – particularly the area around Earth.
Become aware of the extent of this pollution.
Explore solutions for the increasing number of satellites around Earth, focusing on sustainable ways to remove defunct satellites.
- PowerPoint presentation
- Paper
- Drawing and Crafting Materials
Explore more Mission X activities!
In microgravity, astronauts love to perform spectacular somersaults. Here on Earth it’s not so easy, but it certainly is fun! …
Your Mission: Perform throwing and catching techniques on one foot to improve balance and spatial awareness. On Earth, we use …
Your Mission: Perform a series of somersaults on the ground to improve body coordination, flexibility, balance and strengthen your back, …
Votre mission: Effectuer un parcours immergé dans l’eau pour préparer pour votre future sortie extravéhiculaire. This resource was created by …
Your Mission: Complete an agility course as quickly and as accurately as possible to improve agility, coordination and speed. When …
Your Mission: Investigate which factors affect plant growth, and relate these factors to growing plants in space. All the things …
Let’s HIIT the space gym and get ready to sweat! To keep those hearts and lungs healthy, perform a series …
Your Mission: Perform body-weight squats and push-ups to develop upper and lower body strength in muscles and bones. Astronauts must …
Your Mission: Explore the importance of hydration and identify the signs of dehydration. Since our bodies are made up of …
Your mission: Finish the race as quickly as possible using your team spirit! This resource was created by CNES, ESERO …