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Impact of Satellite Pollution on Climate

Scientists are studying how satellite launches affect Earth's climate. Pollution from rockets and discarded satellites is contributing to atmospheric changes.

Source:npr.org

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Standard — Natural English

58 words · ~1 min read
Recent satellite launches are having a significant impact on Earth's atmosphere. Rockets that send satellites into space release pollutants into various layers of the atmosphere. Additionally, when satellites reach the end of their life, they must be burned in the atmosphere, releasing black carbon particles. These particles can block sunlight and contribute to cooling effects on the climate.

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Test your understanding

Test your understanding

01What do rockets release into the atmosphere?

02What happens to satellites at the end of their life?

03What is one effect of black carbon particles?

04Who is conducting research on satellite pollution?

Discussion

Discussion

What are the potential long-term effects of satellite pollution on our climate?

Vocabulary

Vocabulary

  • constellation word

    a group of satellites in orbit

    “The new satellite constellation provides internet services.”

  • pollutants word

    substances that make the air, water, or soil dirty

    “Rockets release pollutants into the atmosphere.”

  • black carbon word

    soot particles that can block sunlight

    “Black carbon particles are released during rocket launches.”

  • incinerated word

    burned completely

    “Old satellites are incinerated in the atmosphere.”

  • atmosphere word

    the layer of gases surrounding the Earth

    “Pollution affects the Earth's atmosphere.”