Last Updated:
Newest information exposes a significant boost in launches, with 259 tape-recorded in 2024 and 223 in 2023. These objectives burnt more than 153,000 tonnes of fuel
Research study shows that while the quantity of soot released by rockets is less than that of other markets, its environment effect is disproportionately greater– as much as 500 times higher than soot from air travel. Representational image
Researchers are sounding the alarm over a growing ecological crisis originating from the quickly broadening area market, requiring a brand-new worldwide routine to deal with the intensifying air contamination. The immediate plea comes as the variety of rocket launches continues its rapid increase, with scientists cautioning that the absence of policy might have extreme effects for Earth’s environment.
Advised Stories
A group led by Professor Eloise Marais at University College London (UCL) has actually been tracking area activities given that 2020. Their newest information exposes a significant boost in launches, with 259 tape-recorded in 2024 and 223 in 2023. These objectives burnt more than 153,000 tonnes of fuel, launching a mix of contaminants, consisting of black carbon (soot) and other chemicals, straight into the upper environment.
According to Professor Marais, this is “uncharted area” for humanity, as we have never before introduced such a high volume of pollutants into the upper layers of the atmosphere. The team’s research indicates that while the amount of soot emitted by rockets is less than that of other industries, its climate impact is disproportionately higher—up to 500 times greater than soot from aviation. This is because these pollutants are injected directly into the stratosphere, where they linger for longer periods and are particularly effective at trapping heat.
The call for a global regime is motivated by the fact that current international space laws are outdated and do not account for the environmental impact of commercial space activity. Scientists are urging for the development of regulations similar to those that govern the aviation and maritime industries, which would help mitigate harm to the climate and the ozone layer. With many more mega-constellations and space tourism ventures planned for the coming years, experts stress that this is a critical time for international cooperation to ensure the long-term sustainability of both space exploration and the planet’s health.
About the Author
Pathikrit Sen Gupta
Pathikrit Sen Gupta is a Senior Associate Editor with News18.com and likes to cut a long story short. He writes sporadically on Politics, Sports, Global Affairs, Space, Entertainment, And Food. He trawls X via …Read More
Pathikrit Sen Gupta is a Senior Associate Editor with News18.com and likes to cut a long story short. He writes sporadically on Politics, Sports, Global Affairs, Space, Entertainment, And Food. He trawls X via …
Read More
- Location :
- First Published:
August 23, 2025, 05:50 IST
News world Pollution Skyrocketing With Rapidly Rising Space Launches, Scientists Warn
Disclaimer: Comments show users’ views, not News18’s. Please keep conversations considerate and useful. Violent, defamatory, or unlawful remarks will be eliminated. News18 might disable any remark at its discretion. By publishing, you consent to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Learn more