Over the decades, India’s space program has developed a reputation for precision, efficiency and steady progress. From launching satellites for other countries to expanding its own navigation and communications systems, the country has become a major player in global space activities. However, space missions don’t always end cleanly. Some remnants left behind continue to orbit the Earth long after their purpose has been fulfilled. According to PIB, a recent statement from the Indian Parliament drew attention to this issue. India currently has 129 pieces of trackable space debris in orbit. That number may seem small compared to global figures, but it still highlights growing concerns about the sustainability of space operations.

ISRO reveals 129 junk objects orbiting space

The 129 objects currently tracked are not uniform in nature. A total of 49 of them are non-operational satellites. These satellites once played an important role but are no longer active and continue to orbit the Earth in low-Earth orbit or geostationary orbit. The remaining objects include the main body of the rocket and debris left behind after launch.Some of the debris comes from launch vehicles such as PSLV, GSLV and LVM3. In addition, there are 33 fragments associated with the PSLV-C3 mission, which are reported to have broken apart in orbit, forming multiple smaller fragments.

Why space debris is a serious problem

Space debris is any man-made object that no longer serves a useful function in orbit.This includes inactive satellites, spent rocket stages, and even very small debris, such as paint particles. Despite the size of these objects, the speed at which they move poses a serious threat. NASA experts say that orbiting objects move at about 10 kilometers per second.At such high speeds, even small pieces of debris can damage or destroy operating satellites. A collision also creates thousands of new pieces of debris, which increases the overall risk in orbit.

What Indian Space Research Organization Steps are being taken to reduce debris

India has taken steps to address the issue of space debris through policy and technology.According to PIB, in 2024, ISRO launched the Debris Free Space Mission (DFSM). The initiative aims to ensure that Indian space missions do not create more debris by 2030.To achieve this, satellites are now designed with the ability to safely deorbit at the end of their useful lives. This usually requires carrying extra fuel so that they can re-enter the Earth’s atmosphere and burn safely, rather than remaining in orbit.

How India is tracking and trying to clean up space debris

Preventing future debris is only part of the challenge. Existing debris also needs to be monitored and removed where possible.India has also made progress in this area. The 2025 SpaDeX mission demonstrates autonomous docking and undocking technology in space. This capability will be important for future missions that may involve capturing and removing inactive satellites or debris.Additionally, Project Netra plays a key role in tracking objects in space. It acts as a space situational awareness system, monitoring debris and providing alerts to avoid potential collisions with active satellites.