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pardon the dumb question - how do rockets from spacex, etc avoid crashing into a satellite on its way up? Is there a way to keep track of all the satellites and
by bjacobt 5y ago
pardon the dumb question - how do rockets from spacex, etc avoid crashing into a satellite on its way up? Is there a way to keep track of all the satellites and debris in space and time the launch so there is a clear path?
- sgtnoodle 5y agoYes, there is a database and radar tracking stations, and they'll avoid launching if there's an increased chance of a collision. The density of satellites and debris in orbit is so low in absolute terms, though, that the probability of any given rocket colliding is negligible even if launching totally blindly. Most launches are timed for minimizing fuel to achieve the desired orbit, and there's only a few seconds of wiggle room for a launch window. So, a particular launch window may be preferred over another depending on the relative probability of a collision. Nobody is explicitly timing their launches or ascent profile with regard to other satellites other than for space stations and other explicit destinations. Most launches the rocket just gets the satellites up into roughly the right orbit, and then the satellites use their own propulsion systems to maneuver into precise orbits over several months.
- bagels 5y agoShort answer: yes. They do this thing called "COLA", Collision On Launch Assessment, an analysis of launch trajectory to ensure they it won't hit known objects.
- deleted 5y ago[deleted]